Not all criminal charges in New York rise to the level of a felony, but Class A misdemeanors are still serious offenses that carry the potential for jail time, fines, and lasting consequences. If you’ve been charged with a Class A misdemeanor, you may be tempted to treat it as “minor,” but doing so can be a costly mistake. A conviction can affect your job, your professional license, your immigration status, and more. At Tilem & Associates, PC, our experienced criminal defense attorneys fight aggressively to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.
Under New York Penal Law, misdemeanors are divided into Class A and Class B, with Class A being the most serious. A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 364 days in jail, along with other penalties such as probation, fines, and mandatory surcharges.
Class A misdemeanors are handled in local criminal courts, such as the New York City Criminal Court or town and village courts throughout the state. While they are not as severe as felonies, they are criminal offenses that can appear on background checks and remain part of your permanent record unless sealed or expunged under certain conditions.
There are dozens of offenses classified as Class A misdemeanors in New York, including:
These charges often arise from common incidents such as disputes, traffic stops, domestic arguments, or misunderstandings. But make no mistake—prosecutors and courts treat Class A misdemeanors seriously.
A conviction for a Class A misdemeanor in New York may result in:
Even if you avoid jail, the collateral consequences can be severe—especially for those in regulated professions, immigrants, or individuals undergoing family court proceedings.
A misdemeanor conviction may seem less intimidating than a felony, but its effects can ripple through every part of your life:
That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to navigate the system, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a strong defense.
At Tilem & Associates, we take misdemeanor cases seriously. We thoroughly investigate the allegations, assess legal defenses, and explore every option to get charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved through diversionary programs or adjournments in contemplation of dismissal (ACD).
Attorney Peter H. Tilem, a former Manhattan prosecutor, leads our team with decades of courtroom experience and a relentless commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.
If you’re facing a Class A misdemeanor charge in New York, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact the attorneys at Tilem & Associates, PC at (877) 377-8666 or reach out online for a confidential consultation. We’re available 24/7 for urgent criminal matters.