First-Time Criminal Charges in Mississippi? Why Hiring the Right Lawyer Can Protect Your Record and Future
If you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime in Mississippi for the first time, you’re likely confused, scared, and unsure of what to do next. Whether it’s a misdemeanor like DUI, domestic violence, or simple assault, or a non-violent felony such as drug possession or property theft, the choices you make early on can have life-long consequences.
Below, we explain the opportunities available to first-time offenders and share real case results from our office to show what’s possible with the right legal team.
What many people don’t realize is this: being a first-time offender opens up opportunities in the criminal justice system—but only if you have the right criminal defense attorney to guide you through it.
Why First-Time Offenders Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
If this is your first offense, you may be eligible for diversion programs, non-adjudication, or other alternatives that can result in a dismissal of charges or clean record. These options are not automatic. In fact, many courts won’t even consider these alternatives unless they’re properly requested by a knowledgeable defense lawyer.
At McCormick Lawrence, PLLC, we focus exclusively on criminal defense in Mississippi. We’ve helped hundreds of clients avoid convictions by negotiating for favorable outcomes in cases ranging from first-time DUI arrests to felony drug charges and misdemeanor assault.
A Conviction—Even for a Misdemeanor—Can Follow You Forever
If you’re charged with simple possession of marijuana, shoplifting, or even a first-time domestic violence charge, pleading guilty without legal advice can be a serious mistake. A conviction, no matter how minor, can impact:
- Your job opportunities
- Your ability to rent housing
- Your gun rights
- Your chances of joining the military
- Your eligibility for student loans
In many cases, a skilled criminal defense lawyer can help avoid a conviction entirely, keep your record clean, and make sure your future isn’t defined by a single mistake.
Common First-Time Offender Programs in Mississippi
If you’re a first-time offender, you may qualify for one of several programs designed to give people a second chance. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
Pretrial Diversion
Pretrial diversion is a program offered in some counties for non-violent, first-time offenders. If you’re accepted, your case is paused while you complete certain conditions—such as community service, drug testing, or counseling. Once you successfully complete the program, your charges are dismissed. No conviction. No criminal record.
Non-Adjudication Probation
Non-adjudication is a legal tool where you enter a plea of guilty, but the judge withholds a conviction while you complete court-ordered conditions. If you meet the requirements, the case is dismissed and you avoid a conviction entirely. This is common in first-time DUI, drug possession, misdemeanor domestic violence cases, and many non-violent felony cases.
Drug Court
Drug court is a more intensive, structured program designed for people struggling with addiction. It involves frequent court check-ins, drug testing, and treatment. For eligible first-time felony drug offenders, drug court can be a path to avoid prison and get the charge dismissed after successful completion.
Conditional Dismissal (Pass to the File)
Often called a “pass to the file,” this is a type of informal agreement where the prosecutor agrees to place your case on inactive status. If you stay out of trouble for a set period—usually 6 to 12 months—the case is dismissed without a trial. It’s commonly used for misdemeanors and first-time offenders and is one of the simplest ways to protect your record.
Why Choose McCormick Lawrence for Your First-Time Offense?
Our experience allows us to know the local court systems in Jackson County, George County, Harrison County, and all surrounding courts, and we appear regularly in municipal, justice, and circuit courts throughout the Gulf Coast. We have relationships with prosecutors, understand the programs available, and know how to position your case for the best possible result.
If there’s a way to keep your record as clean as it was before your arrest, we’ll find it.
Real Case Results
Trafficking Charges Dismissed and Expunged: On January 13, 2021, two clients were arrested and charged with trafficking marijuana, facing a minimum of 10 years and up to 40 years in prison. We negotiated a reduction to possession, and both clients pled guilty to 5 years non-adjudicated probation on August 30, 2022. On October 10, 2024, we obtained a court order expunging the arrest and charges from their records.
Armed Robbery Reduced to Probation: On December 14, 2021, two clients were arrested for armed robbery, facing potential life sentences. After strategic plea negotiations and presenting mitigating evidence at sentencing, the court accepted a reduced charge and sentenced both to 5 years of non-adjudicated probation.
Conspiracy Plea Avoids Armed Robbery Conviction: On November 29, 2019, a client charged alongside five others in an armed robbery case avoided a felony robbery conviction. We successfully negotiated a plea to conspiracy, and our client received 5 years non-adjudicated probation.
Pretrial Diversion for Embezzlement: In two recent embezzlement cases, we secured placement into the pretrial diversion program for our clients, allowing for eventual dismissal and the opportunity to expunge the charges.
Call Now—Your Record Might Depend on It
If you’ve been arrested for the first time, getting legal help early could be the difference between a clean record and a lasting conviction. Our attorneys will walk you through your options, explain every step, and fight to keep your future intact. Call McCormick Lawrence, PLLC today.