The state of Ohio separates criminal law into two categories, with misdemeanors being less serious offenses than felonies. Still, these charges can carry jail time and can impact your future. Misdemeanors are further split into the following subcategories, each of which carries specific punishments. Below is more information about each degree of this type of charge.

What Are the Categories of Misdemeanor Charges in Ohio?

1. First Degree

The most serious charge within this category, a first degree misdemeanor carries a jail sentence of up to 180 days in jail and $1,000 in fines. Carrying a gun without a permit qualifies as this type of offense, as well as petty theft. This is when an individual steals something that carries a total value of under $1,000, such as shoplifting clothes.

2. Second Degree

The fines for second degree misdemeanors fall to $750, and the maximum jail time is also reduced to 90 days. Examples of crimes within this category include producing or selling drug paraphernalia and obstruction of official business. While these are serious crimes, if the courts sentence you to jail time, you will spend it at a local facility, rather than federal prison.

3. Third Degree

For a third degree misdemeanor, criminal law states that the offender cannot receive fines greater than $500 or jail time exceeding 60 days. One common charge is negligent assault, in which someone mistakenly harms another person. For example, if you set off a firework that hurts someone, the courts view this as a crime, but not a malicious or intentional one.

4. Fourth Degree

Fourth degree misdemeanors have a maximum jail sentence of 30 days and a fine of up to $250. Public indecency, criminal trespassing, and multiple traffic convictions within one year fall into this category. The consumption of alcohol in a vehicle is also a fourth degree misdemeanor, and it can carry additional charges, such as a license suspension.

5. Minor

Many courts don’t typically view minor misdemeanors as criminal law violations, as they don’t carry any jail time. Still, they are punishable with a fine of up to $150. Reckless driving and certain other traffic violations are minor misdemeanors, as is disorderly conduct.

If the police charge you with a misdemeanor in Dayton, OH, or the surrounding area, turn to the Law Office of Lawrence W. Henke III. This criminal law attorney has been in the field for more than 40 years and offers exceptional legal support for individuals charged with a crime. See his full list of practice areas online. Call (937) 461-9330 to set up a consultation.