A misdemeanor is a crime that is less serious than a felony. Depending on the charge, misdemeanors may be punishable by up to 90 days, 93 days, or 1 year in the county jail, and fines. Misdemeanor cases start with your arraignment. 

At your arraignment, you are told what you're charged with and the maximum possible sentence, a bond is set, and you're given dates to come back to court for:
  • A pretrial conference between the prosecuting attorney, your attorney and you to determine whether a trial will be necessary; and
  • Your trial.
If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, the judge may sentence you to pay fines and costs, place you on probation, and/or serve time in jail.


Bonds posted with the court must be paid in cash, with a credit card or posted by a bondsperson or bonding agency.

If you posted a bond, and are ordered to pay fines and costs or other assessments, your bond may be retained by the court and applied toward the money you owe.