Reliable Misdemeanor Lawyer
Misdemeanor Charges in California
Misdemeanor charges, although less serious than felony charges, can still result in jail time of up to one year as well as other penalties such as significant fines, community service and probation. Additional consequences can follow having a criminal record, such as difficulty obtaining employment, housing or loans. With the help of a Downey criminal defense attorney, you can fight to avoid these consequences and maintain your freedom.
California law divides misdemeanors into standard misdemeanors and aggravated misdemeanors (also referred to as gross misdemeanors). Some may be considered either depending on the specific circumstances involved, and some may also be increased to felonies in certain cases. The category of the offense will have an effect on the severity of the penalties imposed.
Some examples of misdemeanors include:
- Disorderly conduct
- Disturbing the peace
- Public drunkenness
- Illegal gambling
- Trespassing
- Shoplifting
- Petty theft
- Accepting stolen property
- Driving without a license
- Reckless driving
- DUI
- Violation of probation
- Violation of restraining orders
- Domestic violence
What Are The Penalties for Misdemeanors?
The punishment for a misdemeanor in California is at most a $1,000 fine and usually six months in county jail. Certain misdemeanor offenses are classified as gross or aggravated misdemeanors and are punished more severely. Offenses such as DUI, domestic battery, and driving with a suspended license will typically result in a full year of jail time and as much as a $2,000 fine.
Misdemeanor violations usually result in a probation sentence to avoid sending people to jail.
Probation sentences may include:
- Community service or labor
- House arrest or electronic monitoring
- Participation in treatment or counseling programs
- Payment of restitution
Our Job is Fighting Your Charges
Just as some offenses may be prosecuted as felonies or misdemeanors, some may be considered misdemeanors or infractions. The legal team at the Law Office of James Mendez will use their considerable negotiating skills to pursue the lesser charges, if not a dismissal of your case, either of which can prevent you from facing jail time.
Where penalties are to be imposed, the firm can fight for minimal punishment, which may involve such matters as community service, rehabilitation programs, house arrest and restitution. Above all, they will aggressively pursue an acquittal and your freedom. They offer a free consultation to help you get started on you can have your questions answered and find out how they can help you.
If you are facing misdemeanor charges, contact a Downey misdemeanor attorney for help with your defense.