Even a low-level property-related felony charge can follow someone for the rest of their life. It can affect employment, professional licensing, housing, and future opportunities. In this recent Pulaski County Circuit Court case, Little Rock property crime lawyer Harry Warden and partner Kale Ludwig secured a result that removed a felony conviction, eliminated jail time, and significantly reduced the long-term consequences facing their client.
Turning A Felony Into A Misdemeanor
How did Harry and Kale accomplish this result? By reducing the felony charge to a misdemeanor.
Our client was originally charged with First-Degree Criminal Mischief, a Class D felony, after prosecutors alleged property damage exceeding $1,000. Following negotiations and arguments, the State agreed to substantially reduce the charge.
Instead of a felony conviction, our client resolved the case by pleading to Second-Degree Criminal Mischief, a Class A misdemeanor. The Court also imposed one year of Suspended Imposition of Sentence (SIS), meaning no jail time was ordered as part of the negotiated resolution.
Why This Result Matters
A felony conviction carries consequences that often extend far beyond the courtroom. Even after a sentence ends, a felony record can create obstacles when applying for jobs, retaining gun rights, obtaining professional licenses, securing housing, or passing background checks.
By reducing this case from a Class D felony to a Class A misdemeanor, our defense team helped the client:
- Avoid a felony conviction.
- Eliminate significant felony exposure.
- Reduce potential long-term collateral consequences.
- Resolve the case without serving jail time.
Every case is different, but this case demonstrates how careful preparation can turn a felony allegation into a misdemeanor resolution and make a meaningful difference in a person’s future.
Every Criminal Charge Deserves a Strong Defense
Property crime cases often involve questions about damage estimates, witness credibility, intent, restitution, and the strength of the evidence. Early investigation and strategic negotiations from a criminal mischief attorney can dramatically change the outcome of a case.
Get a No Jail Time Lawyer in Little Rock
At Warden Law Firm and Ludwig Law Firm, we can assign you a property crime lawyer who prepares your case as though it is going to trial. We’re in court every single day litigating criminal charges from criminal mischief and DWIs to rape and federal wire fraud, achieving the best possible result through negotiation or litigation.
Ludwig Law Firm
Phone: 501-868-7500
Website: ludwiglawfirm.com
Serving clients throughout Arkansas.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.
