Almost everyone will run afoul with the law at some point in their life, but many people make changes in the wake of an arrest or citation so that they don’t violate the same law in the future. Most people don’t end up reoffending, but if you end up charged with the same or similar charges after already being convicted in the past, there’s a good chance your previous conviction will impact your current situation. In today’s blog, we explore how prior convictions can impact your newest court case.
The Impact Of Prior Convictions
In almost every situation, being charged with the same crime for a second time will open up the possibility that you will face significantly upgraded penalties compared to the first time around. Judges and juries oftentimes go easy on first time offenders, especially if they show remorse and a willingness to put their mistake in the past. That’s not to say you’ll receive no punishment, but most sentences for first-offense misdemeanors are pretty lenient.
All that changes if you commit the same infraction or a similar infraction in the future. For example, a distracted driving citation in Minnesota is typically punished by a fine of $50 plus court fees, but subsequent charges carry a fine of $275 plus court fees. The fine amount increases more than five times for a subsequent violation. Most people can stomach a $50 fine for a mistake, but a $275 fine for the same infraction is sure to hit the wallet.
We’re not going to cover every single crime and how the punishments change if you are charged following a conviction, but in many instances, here’s what you may be looking at if you find yourself in this situation:
- Increased fines with mandatory minimums
- Jail time
- Increased jail time with mandatory minimums
- Loss of driver’s license
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Required use of an ignition interlock
- Mandatory community service
- Extended probation period
- Substance abuse counseling
- Substance abuse monitoring
- Home confinement
Simply put, you’re likely to face a hefty increase in potential penalties if you are charged with the same or a similar crime, so it’s imperative you make smart choices and stay out of trouble. However, if you do mess up again, you absolutely need to have a lawyer by your side. A lawyer can help tell your side of the story, work with the prosecution and help you avoid a worst case scenario, which can be quite difficult of you’ve already been convicted of a similar crime. Don’t try to win your case on your own or plead guilty and hope for another slap on the wrist, because you may be facing mandatory penalties and real time in jail. Let us help ensure you know what you’re up against and how to make the best out of a bad situation.
Hopefully you never find yourself facing criminal charges for a second or subsequent time, but we’re here to help if you do. Let us set you up for success and connect you with any rehabilitative services that can help you get your life back on track. For more information, or for help with a different criminal matter, reach out to the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
