If you’ve been cited for a petty misdemeanor in Minnesota, you might think it’s no big deal. After all, it’s the lowest offense level under state law. But even a petty misdemeanor can have real consequences if ignored, and it’s important to understand what you’re dealing with.
What is a Petty Misdemeanor?
Under Minnesota law, a petty misdemeanor is not technically a crime. It’s classified as a non-criminal offense with a maximum penalty of a $300 fine. You won’t go to jail for a petty misdemeanor, and you won’t gain a criminal record from it. At least not in the traditional sense.
Common examples include:
- Minor traffic violations (like speeding)
- Public marijuana use
- Public consumption of alcohol
- Littering
These citations are often handed out by police in everyday situations. And because they don’t carry jail time, many people assume they’re nothing to worry about. But here’s where it gets tricky.
Do Petty Misdemeanors Go on Your Record?
Yes, a petty misdemeanor in Minnesota can show up on your record, even if it’s not a crime. It may appear in background checks, especially those done for jobs, housing, or professional licenses. And in some cases, it can still be used by the court as a prior offense in the future.
For example, a petty speeding ticket could be used to enhance penalties if you’re later charged with a more serious driving offense. Similarly, a petty marijuana possession ticket could cause issues if you’re later arrested on drug-related charges.
So while it won’t follow you like a felony or even a misdemeanor conviction, it can affect your future in small but important ways.
How Bad is a Petty Misdemeanor
It’s not “bad” in the sense that you’ll end up behind bars, but it’s also not something to blow off. Failing to pay a fine or show up in court can escalate the situation. The court may issue a bench warrant, which leads to further consequences.
Plus, some offenses that seem minor at first might have hidden penalties. For instance, certain traffic-related petty misdemeanors could impact your driver’s license or insurance rates.
Simply put, a petty misdemeanor is the legal equivalent of a slap on the wrist. But if you ignore it, that slap can turn into a legal headache.
Petty Offense vs. Misdemeanor: What’s the Difference?
This is a common point of confusion. A petty offense, or petty misdemeanor, is a step below a misdemeanor. It doesn’t carry jail time and isn’t classified as a crime. A misdemeanor, on the other hand, is a criminal offense punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. It will appear on your criminal record and can lead to more significant consequences if you’re charged again later.
Think of a petty misdemeanor as a legal warning with a fine, while a misdemeanor is a low-level criminal charge with real long-term implications.
Can You Fight a Petty Misdemeanor?
Yes. You still have the right to contest a petty misdemeanor in court. You won’t get a jury trial, but you can appear before a judge and present your case. This might make sense if:
- You believe the citation was issued in error
- There’s a misunderstanding about what happened
- You’re worried about the impact on your job or license
A defense attorney can help you weigh the pros and cons of fighting the charge. In some cases, you may be eligible for a diversion program or other resolution that keeps it off your record completely.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Pay the Fine and Forget It
It’s tempting to just pay the $100-$300 fine and move on. But before you do, it’s worth asking:
- Could this affect my job?
- Will it raise my insurance?
- Could it come back to haunt me?
If you’re not sure, talk to an attorney. What seems like a quick fix now could lead to complications later.
Contact Shek Law for Help
Even minor changes deserve smart, strategic attention. If you’ve been cited for a petty misdemeanor in Minnesota, don’t leave it to change. At Shek Law, we’ll help you understand your options and protect your future, even when the charge seems small.
Contact Shek Law today to schedule a consultation and get the guidance you need.