Crimes
The Complaint
If you’ve been charged with a crime by the state, sheriff, highway patrol or other government authority, it is considered a criminal case if you have been charged by another person or business entity and served due process, it is a civil case. Your citation serves as an official complaint or a complaint. Alternatively a complaint may be filed by the District Attorney. Your first court date is usually known as an arraignment.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony
The severity of the charge determines whether it is a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony. Each carries a different penalty if found guilty. In Nevada, all persons are considered innocent unless they are proven guilty by trial in court admit to guilt.
A misdemeanor is any crime where the maximum penalty at sentencing is a fine of $1,000 or less and/or a jail sentence of 6 months or less.
A gross misdemeanor is any crime where the maximum penalty at sentencing is a fine of up to $2,000 and/or a jail sentence of 1 year or less in the county jail.
A felony is any crime where the possible penalty could include incarceration in Nevada State Prison for a year or more.
If you don’t understand the charges against you, you may ask the judge or consult with a lawyer.