Misdemeanor charges might not seem serious when you compare them to a felony. However, in the state of California they can lead to serious fines, a mark on your public record, and even jail time if they aren’t handled properly.
Hiring a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can be a good first step if you are facing misdemeanor charges. Trained attorneys can help you reduce some of the serious consequences you might otherwise face if convicted of a misdemeanor charge.
Penalties For Misdemeanors In California Can Be High
California has many misdemeanor charges that you might face, including those related to:
If you are charged with a misdemeanor and found guilty, you could face the following severe consequences:
- Probation
- Community service time
- Up to a year of jail time
- Up to $2,000 in fines
- A mark on your record
Additionally, some misdemeanors in California are considered “wobblers.” This means that they could also be charged as a felony. In these cases, you might end up facing more severe charges depending on your situation. Getting professional aid when dealing with a misdemeanor charge can help lower your chances of dealing with these penalties.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Los Angeles, call (310) 896-2723
Lawyers Can Help You Handle Misdemeanor Charges Outside Of Court
You can start getting the protection you need from a criminal defense attorney even before misdemeanor charges are filed against you. Having an attorney present when you’re facing questioning or an interrogation can help ensure you are treated fairly within the law and that your right to remain silent is respected by law enforcement officers.
Experienced criminal defense lawyers can also assist you if you’ve already been charged. Experienced criminal lawyers are familiar with the prosecutors you might face and can help provide you with sound advice about taking deals. They can also work to ensure you get a plea agreement that falls in your favor.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Get Courtroom Assistance From Trained Defense Attorneys
If your misdemeanor case does go to court, you will face a prosecuting attorney who will work against you. You might have the chance to represent yourself in this situation, but this option leaves you completely on your own to handle complicated legal issues.
You might also be able to work with a public defender in your court case. Unfortunately, you will not get to pick the attorney who defends you if you get a public defender. This means you might end up with an attorney who has limited experience in court and who isn’t ready to provide you with a sound defense.
Working with a criminal defense attorney that you pick gives you the chance to get assistance from someone with a proven record of success. These lawyers can provide you with a strong defense. They can also look for weak-points in the prosecution’s case that might otherwise be missed.
Get Help From An Experienced Attorney Even If You Face A Conviction
Sometimes, the best way to handle a case is to plead guilty, but even this outcome doesn’t mean that you’re completely out of options. Even with a conviction, you may be able to clear your record. Getting your record clean means the misdemeanor conviction won’t damage your chances for getting a loan, secure housing, or even a job in the future.
You can protect your future in some cases by having your criminal record removed. The process for clearing a criminal record is very complicated. Getting legal help from attorneys who are practiced expunging a criminal record before you undertake this process can increase your chances for success.
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Hire A Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer To Begin Protecting Yourself
Make sure you’re prepared to handle the serious consequences associated with a misdemeanor charge in California by contacting the criminal defense team that’s right for you. Our Los Angeles firm has experience helping individuals facing serious charges in many areas, including:
You can work with our team to get protection before you even reach the courtroom. We have the experience to help with plea deals and courtroom arguments as well as clearing your record if that becomes necessary.
Get started with your defense against a misdemeanor charge by contacting us today for a FREE consultation. You can use the form on the right to contact us or you can call us anytime at 310-896-2723 to start going over your case.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form