Crimes

Crimes

The Complaint

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Law enforcement officers will give you a citation or arrest you depending on the crime committed.

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.

NEXT: Appearing In Court ⟶