Absolutely. Even the least severe misdemeanor, an ungraded misdemeanor, can result in a jail sentence for up to one year.
But something to think about that people don’t really understand is that many people in jail are not convicted of anything. Pennsylvania has a cash bail system. That means when someone is charged with a crime, a judge can require that that person give the court money to stay out of jail. If that person doesn’t have the money, then they have to sit in jail until their trial, which could be months or even years.
In Pennsylvania, you can be put in jail for being charged with a crime. You are innocent until proven guilty. But people aren’t treated that way. I think having an attorney in your corner can protect you from wrongful incarceration.
If you have any questions about the topic discussed in this video, or any criminal law matter, please give us a call at Bononi & Company 724-832-2499.