Lafayette Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys
Diligently Defending Against Misdemeanor Offenses in Acadiana
Being charged with a misdemeanor can feel unsettling, confusing, and deeply personal. Even minor offenses can still carry serious consequences for your freedom, reputation, and future. No matter the charge against you, you deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. At LeJeune & Associates, we are committed to providing the vigorous defense you are rightfully entitled to.
Whether you’re a first-time offender or have prior charges, our misdemeanor defense lawyers can work tirelessly to safeguard your life and liberty. Our attorneys bring decades of experience to every case and are fully prepared to represent you at trial if necessary to pursue a fair verdict. We take the time to truly understand your situation and help you feel heard and supported at each stage of the process.
If you were charged with a misdemeanor in Lafayette, our attorneys can aggressively defend your rights. Contact us online to discuss your case.
Common Misdemeanors We Defend Against
Simple Assault
Simple assault is committed when a person attempts to cause physical injury (battery) to another person without a dangerous weapon (La. R.S. § 14:38). A conviction carries up to 90 days in jail and a $200 fine.
Domestic Abuse Battery
Domestic abuse battery is the intentional use of force or violence committed against a household or family member (La. R.S. § 14:35.3). First offenses carry up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail.
Violating a Protective Order
This crime is defined as the willful disobedience of a preliminary or permanent injunction or protective order (La. R.S. § 14:79). A first non-violent offense carries up to six months in jail and a $500 fine.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
DUI is committed by operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol (La. R.S. § 14:98). A first-time offense without aggravating circumstances is typically a misdemeanor punishable by up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail.
Simple Criminal Damage to Property
Simple criminal damage (vandalism) is the intentional damaging of property by any means other than fire or explosion (La. R.S. § 14:56). Damaging property valued at less than $1,000 carries a maximum fine of $1,000 and six months in jail.
What Our Clients Say About Working With Us
Honest Feedback from People We’ve Helped
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"They have treated us like family."They have time and time again gone above and beyond for our case and prove that no matter what they will always give 110%!- Shelby A.
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"They really went the extra mile for me."I was recommended to Mr. Clay LeJeune Law Firm by a family member. After contacting and set up a meeting he was very willing and went out his way to help me get my legal situation taken care.- Derek C.
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"I recommend Clay LeJeune to any person who need professional service."Clay LeJeune went out of his way to provide me with the best law service, and deepest compliance to fix what was unjustly brought against me. I recommend Clay LeJeune to any person who need professional service. Thank you Clay LeJeune for all of your help and assistance.- Winnie B.
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"I would definitely recommend this law firm."So where do I begin. Attorney Clay is extremely intelligent, he knows what he is talking about for sure, gives you best advice, won't waste your time or money. He jumped on my case immediately. The whole staff is very friendly and just wonderful, Amanda is awesome. I would definitely recommend this law firm.- Rachel H.
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"Words cannot express how grateful we are for Mr. LeJeune and his staff."From day one he was on top of our case and showed us compassion. If you're looking for results Clay LeJeune is your Attorney!- Stephanie L.
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"He saved my career, livelihood, and in some ways it feels like my life."
I owe Mr. Clay so much. He saved my career, livelihood, and in some ways it feels like my life. Not to mention kept me out of prison. My family and I are so very much grateful for him and his staff. It’s tough dealing with criminal charges but I was found some relief when he said that he wasn’t worried and that I shouldn’t be until he was. Wouldn’t recommend anyone else in Acadiana.
- Gabriel M. -
"A top notch attorney."I highly recommend! Best criminal defense attorney in this area for sure. His staff is so helpful and so supportive. Always there when you need them and will protect you and your future.- Tonya C.
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"They have my business for LIFE."
Through this process they always kept me up to date on what was going on with my case and never left me wondering what was happening next.
- Shannon D.
What Counts as a Misdemeanor in Louisiana?
Misdemeanors are generally non-violent offenses that do not meet the definition of a felony, meaning they are not punishable by time in a state prison. The most common penalties for a misdemeanor conviction are fines and a mandatory six-month jail period.
Is It Possible to Avoid Jail Time for a Misdemeanor?
It’s possible to avoid jail time for a misdemeanor, especially for first-time or non-violent offenses. However, the outcome ultimately depends on the charge, the circumstances of the case, and prior criminal history.
Our attorneys can advocate for reduced sentencing or alternatives like probation, fines, community service, treatment programs, or deferred sentencing if appropriate to minimize the long-term impacts of a conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanor Offenses
Can Misdemeanors Be Expunged?
Certain misdemeanors may be eligible for expungement after a mandatory waiting period. This process removes or limits public access to your criminal record and can help reduce barriers to employment, housing, and professional opportunities.
Eligibility depends on the type of offense and whether you have prior convictions. Our attorneys are well-versed in these legal requirements to help you file a petition, meet statutory deadlines, and present a compelling case.
How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on My Criminal Record?
A misdemeanor usually remains on your criminal record indefinitely unless it is eligible for expungement or sealing. The exact timing for expungement eligibility depends on the type of offense and whether you have prior convictions.
Even minor offenses can appear on background checks until the record is legally cleared. We can review your record, identify offenses that may qualify for expungement, and assist with legal filings to help you move forward in the process.
When Can a Misdemeanor Be Elevated to a Felony?
A misdemeanor can be elevated to a felony in certain situations, such as repeat offenses, causing serious bodily injury, using a weapon, or committing the crime under aggravating circumstances. For example, multiple DUI convictions or domestic abuse incidents can result in felony charges.
The decision to elevate a misdemeanor depends on the specific facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history. We can carefully review the charge, identify potential aggravating factors, and develop effective strategies to address or challenge potential enhancements before they escalate.
Can I Defend Myself in a Misdemeanor Case?
Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, but a conviction can still result in life-altering consequences that affect your freedom, reputation, career, and personal life. While you have the constitutional right to represent yourself, having legal representation is strongly recommended.
In some cases, working with a defense lawyer can mean the difference between going to jail and preserving your liberty. Our firm can challenge the evidence against you and negotiate a favorable plea agreement or alternative sentencing if possible to safeguard your future opportunities.
Don’t let one mistake jeopardize your future. Call (337) 607-1908 to schedule a consultation with our highly skilled defense lawyers.