22 Dec 2023
Criminal Defense
Felonies and misdemeanors are scary words that everyone has heard before, but most people have never been charged with either criminal offense. On the other hand, infractions are a term that not many know, even though many people have received at least one.
As criminal defense attorneys, we at Lermitte & Lubin, LLC have encountered numerous situations where people want to fight infractions they are charged with without even knowing what they are called. We are here to detail and explain exactly what infractions are so clients can be informed on how serious they are, how one can fight them, and if they should.
What are Infractions?
Infractions are minor offenses that are punishable by a fine or community service. Unlike felonies and misdemeanors, infractions do not result in jail time. This does not mean they don’t carry long-term consequences, but they are certainly not as serious as the consequences for felonies and misdemeanors. Infractions encompass a wide range of offenses, including:- Traffic Violations: These are actions that will earn you a ticket. This includes things like speeding, failing to stop at a stop sign, or driving without a valid license. You won’t be arrested for this, but you’ll get a fine.
- Littering: Disposing of trash in non-designated areas is considered an infraction. You’d have to commit this infraction multiple times to get more than a ticket.
- Public Intoxication: Being visibly drunk or under the influence of drugs in public can lead to an infraction charge. Repetitive charges can lead to misdemeanor charges.
- Noise Violations: Excessive noise, particularly during designated quiet hours, can also result in an infraction. For example, throwing a loud party can garner a noise violation.
- Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside of a designated crosswalk or against a traffic signal is a common infraction people commit.
- Fishing or Hunting without a License: Fishing and hunting without a permit can lead to an infraction charge.