The state of California uses specific punishments to handle misdemeanor convictions. These legal repercussions are covered under California Penal Code Section 19 PC: Punishment for Misdemeanor.
These misdemeanor convictions can result in fines, jail time, probation, and other penalties. Get help avoiding a condition when you call a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles at The Simmrin Law Group.
Review the Legal Applications of Penal Code 19
PC 19 is not a lengthy section of the legal code of California. It simply states the punishment for misdemeanors. According to PC 19, individuals convicted of a misdemeanor may face the following:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Jail time of up to six months
You may be assigned one or both of these penalties after a conviction. Note that PC 19 also states that there may be different penalties for a conviction based on the laws of the state. This means that, in some cases, you may deal with additional penalties.
For example, in some cases, you may get probation instead of jail time. If you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI), you could face restrictions on your driver’s license. You could also be ordered to attend an alcohol treatment program.
These additional penalties are covered by other laws of the state. The court may legally use them, even though PC 19 only covers fines and jail time for a misdemeanor conviction.
Examples of Misdemeanors in California
Not all criminal charges in California are prosecuted as misdemeanors. In addition to misdemeanor charges, you could face accusations for a(n):
- Infraction. Infractions are minor criminal offenses. They often result in a small fine if you are convicted.
- Felony. Felonies are more serious than misdemeanors. You could face prison time for a felony.
There are many different examples of misdemeanor charges here in California. For example, the prosecution could use misdemeanor charges if you are accused of violating:
- Penal Code §314: Indecent Exposure
- Penal Code §484: Petty Theft
- Penal Code §602: Trespassing
These are just some examples of misdemeanor charges.
Wobbler Charges
You should know that, in addition to infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies, you may also face “wobbler” charges. Wobblers are treated as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending upon your situation. Grand theft is an example of a wobbler.
There are also “wobblettes” in California’s legal system. Wobblettes are treated as infractions or misdemeanors. We’re ready to help you understand these charges. Just reach out to a criminal defense lawyer at the Simmrin Law Group.
Penalties for Felonies in California
A felony conviction may lead to harsher penalties than a misdemeanor. You could end up facing prison time if you are convicted of a felony. You may also face higher fines and a lengthier period of probation.
In some cases, a felony may be reduced to a misdemeanor, such as if you were accused of a wobbler. A lawyer could file a Penal Code 17(b) motion to get your charges reduced. This would allow you to receive the punishment for a misdemeanor, rather than a felony.
Collateral Fallout of a Misdemeanor Conviction
Although you may consider the penalties of a misdemeanor conviction seemingly minor, the impact a conviction will have on your life is undeniable. If you are found guilty of a misdemeanor offense under California Penal Code Section 19, your entire life could be affected. Some examples of collateral consequences you may face include:
- Being required to complete anger management courses
- Being required to participate in group therapy or mental health counseling
- Being required to check in with a probation officer
- Installing an ignition interlock device at your own expense
- Risk of deportation or other immigration issues
- Trouble with your child custody or visitation rights
- Loss of eligibility for federal student aid
Handle Misdemeanor Charges with a CA PC 19 Lawyer
A misdemeanor conviction in California could lead to fines and jail time. It may also impact your life in other ways. Fortunately, you don’t have to just accept a criminal conviction. You can take steps to build a defense by contacting a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer immediately.
Members of our team are ready to lend you their legal knowledge and experience. Reaching out to us for help is easy. We’ll keep you up-to-date as we work to build your defense. You can count on us to take the necessary steps to get your charges dismissed or reduced further.
The Simmrin Law Group provides legal assistance if you are accused of an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony. We know how to handle wobblers and wobblettes. Allow us to take charge of your defense right now.
Ask a Lawyer About Penal Code 19: Punishment for a Misdemeanor
You can contact the Simmrin Law Group to learn more about the penalties of a conviction in California under Penal Code 19: Punishment for a Misdemeanor. Contact us for help now by filling out our online contact form. Taking these steps can help you reach a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
Reach out to us now for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.