When you receive a Misdemeanor Citation, it is important to understand that you have been charged with a misdemeanor criminal charge, but the police officer has chosen to write you a citation instead of placing you under arrest. By signing the citation, you have agreed to appear on a future date for Booking and Processing and thereafter to appear in court on a different date for arraignment on these criminal charges. It is very important to realize that a misdemeanor offense can carry up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, if convicted, so it needs to be taken seriously. This is not the same type of citation you might receive for a traffic or parking violation, which are generally civil ordinance violations.
Some Common Crimes for Which a Misdemeanor Citation May Be Issued:
- Driving While License Suspended or Revoked
- Theft of Property < $1000 (Shoplifting)
- Reckless Driving
- Simple Possession of a Controlled Substance or Paraphernalia
- Alcohol Sales to Minors
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident
- Disorderly Conduct
- Possession of a Weapon or Gun in Airport
- Patronizing Prostitution
- Criminal Trespass
- Illegal Gambling
How the Misdemeanor Process Works in Memphis:
When you receive a Misdemeanor Citation, you will see that there will be two separate dates listed at the bottom. The first date will be the date and time for you to appear for Booking and Processing and the second date is your date to appear in court.
If you received this in Memphis, Booking and Processing is located at 201 Poplar in the Shelby County Jail Annex 10-06. You will need to bring your Driver’s License or other identification. They will take your picture and you will be fingerprinted but you will not be taken into custody during this procedure. Many times, Booking and Processing is now being scheduled early on the same day as your first court appearance in General Sessions Court . The General Sessions Courts are at 201 Poplar Avenue (next door to the Jail Annex where the Booking and Processing takes place). Your case will be set in General Sessions Court Divisions 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13 at 9:00 am. The Misdemeanor Citation will instruct you to be there at 8:30 am to allow time for you to get through security and find the assigned courtroom. It is extremely important that you appear at each of these events as instructed. If you miss your designated court appearance, a warrant will be issued for your arrest and you may be charged with the additional criminal offense of Failure to Appear for Booking and Processing.
If you received this in Memphis, Booking and Processing is located at 201 Poplar in the Shelby County Jail Annex 10-06. You will need to bring your Driver’s License or other identification. They will take your picture and you will be fingerprinted but you will not be taken into custody during this procedure. Many times, Booking and Processing is now being scheduled early on the same day as your first court appearance in General Sessions Court . The General Sessions Courts are at 201 Poplar Avenue (next door to the Jail Annex where the Booking and Processing takes place). Your case will be set in General Sessions Court Divisions 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13 at 9:00 am. The Misdemeanor Citation will instruct you to be there at 8:30 am to allow time for you to get through security and find the assigned courtroom. It is extremely important that you appear at each of these events as instructed. If you miss your designated court appearance, a warrant will be issued for your arrest and you may be charged with the additional criminal offense of Failure to Appear for Booking and Processing.
Protect Your Future With a Strong Defense
As with any misdemeanor, you could face up to a year in jail, up to $2,500 in fines, loss of driver’s license, probation, fees, and other penalties that could impact your life, or livelihood. You need a qualified attorney to help you navigate this process and to work hard to get you the best outcome in your case. The McDaniel Law Firm will use their 37 years of experience and expertise to get you the outcome you deserve.
Call The McDaniel Law Firm to discuss your case or to schedule a Free Consultation – 901-527-6518