Misdemeanors In California

The general definition of what constitutes a misdemeanor can be found in California Penal Code § 17(b). Except in cases where a different punishment is prescribed by any law of this state, every offense declared to be a misdemeanor is punishable by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding six months, or by fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by both.

While the penalties for a misdemeanor conviction are not as severe as the penalties for a felony conviction, they can still include jail time, heavy fines, probation and restrictions on your ability to get professional licenses. In addition, some misdemeanors are considered “wobblers,” meaning that depending on your criminal history and the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime, the district attorney has the authority to escalate the charge to a felony.

Consequences Of A Misdemeanor Conviction

Some people believe that a misdemeanor is more of an embarrassment than a serious crime. They feel that they can have the crime expunged later and go on with their life. However, as mentioned above, the consequences of a misdemeanor conviction can have lifelong consequences. You can petition for an expungement even if you have not yet completed probation. That means years of restrictions on accessing rental properties, difficulty qualifying for a loan and being prohibited from certain professions.

Common Types Of Misdemeanor Crimes

Attorney Zamora has represented hundreds of people in misdemeanor cases. Some of the more types of cases he handles includes:

• Child abuse
• DUI
• Possession of a controlled substance
• Probation violation
• Prostitution
• Theft crimes

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor crime, contact attorney Zamora as soon as possible after charges have been filed. The sooner he can start working on your defense, the better your chances of minimizing penalties and possibly getting the charges reduced or dropped.

Contact Jacob Zamora, Esq., Today

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, contact attorney Jacob Zamora. Fill out the online contact form to set up a free initial consultation.

Northern California | Misdemeanors | Criminal Defense Attorney Jacob Zamora, Esq.