Criminal Defense: Malicious Mischief
There are three degrees of Malicious mischief ranging from a class B felony to a gross misdemeanor. The punishment for these crimes will be based entirely on the cost of the damage. Malicious mischief in the first degree happens when one knowingly and maliciously causes damage to another’s property in excess of five thousand ($5,000.00) dollars. This is a class B felony. Malicious Mischief in the second degree occurs when one knowingly and maliciously causes property damage in an amount exceeding seven hundred and fifty ($750.00) dollars. This is a class C felony. Malicious mischief in the third degree occurs when one knowingly and maliciously causes property damage not amounting to first or second degree. This is a gross misdemeanor.
If you have been accused of willfully destructing property, whether through means of graffiti, vandalism or some other method, you will be facing charges of malicious mischief. If you have been accused of malicious mischief, please call a criminal lawyer as soon as possible.
Having a criminal defense attorney represent you is important, as they can fully understand the elements of the charge, the burden of proof for the prosecutor, whether to have an judge or jury trial, how to present a trial, and alternatives to trial. A criminal defense attorney cannot guarantee results, but can properly walk you through this complicated process.
Please contact one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys to discuss you possible criminal misdemeanor charges. You can contact us at 425-255-4542 or visit our other criminal defense articles on our web page. Our firm is available to assist you in your legal needs.