A misdemeanor covers all crimes that are not punishable by incarceration in the State prison (felony) or others that are classified as infractions (i.e. a speeding ticket). Common examples of misdemeanors are driving under the influence, possession of marijuana, and petty theft. Although they are not punishable by state prison sentences, misdemeanors can result in county jail confinement of up to 1 year, large fines, and the suspension of privileges (i.e. driver’s license). In some cases misdemeanors are also “wobbler” crimes, meaning they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. These are potentially more serious crimes, especially if you have prior convictions. If you have been charged with a more serious misdemeanor (such as DUI), or have prior misdemeanors on your record, contact our attorneys now to discuss your case.

Consequences of Conviction

Convictions for misdemeanor crimes can result in jail time or a fine. Some misdemeanor crimes, such as possession of small amounts of marijuana, may be expunged (removed from a person’s record), so long as the person pays a small fine, stays out of further trouble, and attends a drug diversion class. Other crimes, such as DUI, can result in large fines, suspension or revocation of a person’s driver’s license, and jail time. It is essential that those facing DUI charges and other more serious misdemeanors seek out an attorney to discuss a possible legal defense strategy. Without a proper legal defense these crimes can result in extra jail time, fines, etc. Contact our experienced attorney’s today to discuss your case.

Other consequences of a misdemeanor conviction involve having a conditional sentence in which the person is not sent to jail so long as certain conditions are met. A conditional sentence may limit a person’s rights on where they may go and when the police may search or arrest them. It is important that you understand your conditions to avoid getting into more trouble. An example of this is after a DUI conviction, where a condition on avoiding jail is that the person not drive with any amount of alcohol in their system (as opposed to the normal .08 BAC). Our attorney’s will be able to explain your sentence and the things you will and will not be permitted to do. It is also possible to reduce the total amount of time which a conditional sentence will apply. Contact us today.

Bail, Plea-Bargains & Trial

Bail for misdemeanors can range from nothing (“free on your own recognizance”) to thousands of dollars. Bail amounts are usually determined based on the severity of the offense, chance of harm to others if you are released, and your flight risk. If you or someone you know has an exceedingly high bail amount, contact our attorney’s today to discuss any options you may have to lower it.

Plea-bargains are common in resolving misdemeanor charges without going to trial. Depending on the crime and a person’s past convictions, plea-bargains can eliminate the chance of jail time and reduce fines. Plea bargains may also help to prevent or limit license suspensions and fines. Our Attorney’s can initiate the plea bargain process and advise you on any deals that are accepted or offered by the prosecutor. Contact us today.

In times where a deal cannot be reached or is not desirable the case will go to trial. These usually consist of jury trials and last a few days or less. Although misdemeanor trials may seem like simple events, they can be quite complicated particularly with more serious charges (i.e. DUI). Failure to properly defend a case can result in additional jail time, fines, etc. If your case is going to trial, or you are not sure, contact our Attorney’s today to discuss and implement an effective defense strategy.

If you have been arrested or charged with a misdemeanor in California we strongly urge you to contact our experienced criminal defense attorneys today! We can put our resources to work for you and help to negotiate or litigate the best outcome for your situation. Contact us online or call: 1-800-221-7084