Charge b/g Criminal charges may be filed against an individual for a variety of offenses. A criminal charge may be a misdemeanor charge or a felony charge. Different criminal charges require different punishments, although a criminal charge sentencing guideline is available to help judges and juries assess an appropriate punishment. DUI Charges DUI Charges are usually charged if an individual has a blood alcohol content level (BAC) above a certain level. These BAC levels allow DUI charges to be filed pro se, meaning it is not needed to prove the influence, only that the BAC level is elevated. DWI Charges Before BAC levels could be tested easily, an individual could be charged with DWI. However, DWI charges fell out of favor because it was difficult to conclusively prove that an individual was intoxicated. Misdemeanor charges Misdemeanor charges are leveled against individuals charged with less serious offenses. Common Misdemeanor charges are petty theft, prostitution, public intoxication, simple assault, disorderly conduct, trespass, vandalism, drug possession, and reckless driving. Felony charges Police charge felony charges if they have evidence of serious wrong doing. Felony charges include but are not limited to aggravated assault, battery, arson, burglary, the sale of illegal drugs, grand theft, robbery, murder, rape, and illegal drug use. Assault charges Assault charges develop if a person has reasonable cause to be apprehensive that they are placed in danger of bodily harm through the willful actions of another person who intends to cause them harmful or offensive contact.