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Los Angeles Misdemeanor Lawyer
William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law is here to help you if you are facing misdemeanor charges in Los Angeles County. Our law firm has years of experience handling criminal cases, including misdemeanors. We help protect your rights and work hard to reduce or dismiss charges.
Whether you are charged with domestic violence, DUI, or theft, our criminal defense attorneys are ready to fight for you.
Why You Need a Misdemeanor Lawyer in Los Angeles
Misdemeanors may seem less serious than felonies, but they can still have serious consequences. Whether you’re facing domestic violence, DUI, or theft charges, a misdemeanor lawyer can help you understand your rights and reduce the penalties.
Having the right Los Angeles misdemeanor lawyer by your side ensures you’re prepared for court and helps protect your future.
Don’t Underestimate Misdemeanor Charges
Even though misdemeanor charges may carry lighter penalties than felonies, they can still lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record. These consequences can affect your job, your future, and your ability to travel. Domestic violence or a DUI charge can have lasting impacts, even if it’s your first offense.
A skilled criminal defense lawyer helps you avoid these risks by presenting a strong defense and protecting your rights.
How a Criminal Record Can Affect Your Life
A criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, can have lasting effects on your life, including:
- Difficulty finding a job or getting hired, especially in certain fields
- Trouble getting loans or credit, including for a car or home
- Inability to obtain or renew professional licenses
- Challenges when traveling, especially outside the U.S.
- Damage to your reputation in your community or among family and friends
- Limited access to housing options or public assistance programs
Having a misdemeanor charge on your record can create barriers, even if the charge is minor. A criminal defense lawyer can help mitigate these risks by working to have the case dismissed or fighting for a reduced charge.
Legal Representation Can Help Avoid Jail and Fines
When you face misdemeanor charges, legal representation is crucial. A Los Angeles misdemeanor lawyer can help:
- Challenge evidence: Your lawyer may challenge how the evidence was collected or show that it does not prove guilt.
- Negotiate with prosecutors: A skilled criminal defense attorney can often get charges reduced or ask for alternative sentences like probation or community service.
- Avoid jail time: Instead of serving time in jail, you may qualify for other options like diversion programs or probation.
- Reduce fines: Your lawyer can argue for a reduction in fines or ask for a payment plan that suits your financial situation.
Having a Los Angeles misdemeanor lawyer on your side is the best way to avoid jail time and minimize the financial burden of a misdemeanor charge.
Common Misdemeanor Charges in Los Angeles
Misdemeanors in Los Angeles County cover a variety of offenses. These charges can carry serious penalties, even if they seem minor. Understanding the most common misdemeanor charges and how to defend against them can help protect your rights.
A few of the most common misdemeanor offenses you might face include:
DUI (First or Second Offense)
A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge is a common misdemeanor, especially for first or second offenses. If you are caught with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit, you can face penalties like jail time, fines, and driver’s license suspension.
A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can challenge the accuracy of the field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, or how your arrest was handled to reduce penalties or even dismiss charges.
Petty Theft and Shoplifting
Petty theft and shoplifting are common misdemeanors in Los Angeles. These crimes involve stealing items valued at less than $950. While the charge may seem minor, it can still lead to fines, community service, or jail time.
A criminal defense attorney can help by arguing for reduced charges or negotiating a plea deal to avoid a criminal record.
Vandalism and Trespassing
Vandalism and trespassing are both common misdemeanor charges in Los Angeles. Vandalism involves damaging property, including breaking windows or spray-painting walls. Trespassing occurs when someone enters private property without permission.
Both offenses can lead to fines, community service, or jail time. A criminal defense lawyer can help reduce the severity of these charges or find ways to avoid a conviction altogether.
Domestic Battery [Penal Code § 243(e)(1)]
Domestic battery is a misdemeanor charge under Penal Code § 243(e)(1). It typically involves hitting or pushing someone you live with, such as a spouse or partner. Even if there is no physical evidence of injury, you could still face criminal penalties like anger management classes, probation, or jail time.
A domestic violence lawyer can help defend against these charges, challenge witness testimony, or negotiate for a reduction in penalties.
Simple Assault or Disorderly Conduct
Simple assault and disorderly conduct are misdemeanor charges that involve causing fear or making a disturbance. Simple assault does not require physical injury, while disorderly conduct can involve anything from public intoxication to disturbing the peace.
These charges often lead to fines, community service, or jail time. A criminal defense lawyer can work to prove that there was no intent to cause harm or that the behavior was misunderstood.
Driving on a Suspended License
Driving on a suspended license is a misdemeanor charge that can lead to serious consequences. If your driver’s license is suspended due to issues like unpaid tickets, DUIs, or not meeting California Vehicle Code requirements, driving without a valid license can result in fines, additional suspension, and even jail time.
A Los Angeles misdemeanor lawyer can help you explore options like early reinstatement of your driver's license or getting the charges reduced or dismissed.
How a Los Angeles Misdemeanor Lawyer Can Help
If you are facing misdemeanor charges, having a skilled criminal defense lawyer by your side can make a big difference. From court proceedings to plea bargains, a lawyer will ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the criminal justice system.
Here are the key ways a Los Angeles misdemeanor lawyer can assist you:
Protecting You During Court Proceedings
A criminal defense attorney is there to protect your legal rights during every step of your case. Whether you're facing assault and battery, domestic violence, or a DUI charge, your lawyer will represent you in the courtrooms of Los Angeles and handle interactions with law enforcement. For most misdemeanor cases, you usually do not have to be personally present unless formally ordered by the judge.
Negotiating a Dismissal or Reduction
One of the main roles of a criminal defense lawyer is to negotiate with the district attorney for a dismissal or reduction of charges. If the case against you is weak, your lawyer will use a defense strategy to ask for the best possible outcome, which may include reduced fines, probation, or alternative sentencing instead of jail time.
Filing Pretrial Motions to Suppress Evidence
If evidence against you was obtained unlawfully, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress the evidence. This could include warrantless searches, illegal seizures, or violations of Miranda Rights. If successful, this motion can weaken the prosecution's case and may even result in the case being dismissed.
Alternative Sentencing Options for Misdemeanors
For misdemeanor charges, especially those like sex crimes, theft, or disorderly conduct, alternative sentencing options are often available. These options can help avoid jail time and offer a chance to complete programs instead.
Below are some alternatives to traditional sentencing that may be available, depending on the circumstances and the deputy district attorney handling the case.
Diversion Programs and Deferred Entry of Judgment
Diversion programs and deferred entry of judgment (DEJ) allow first-time offenders to complete specific tasks, such as counseling or community service, instead of serving time in jail. Successful completion may result in the dismissal of charges and no criminal record.
This option is commonly offered for less serious criminal charges, including drug offenses or minor violent crimes.
Expungement After Case Completion
After completing the terms of your sentence, such as probation or community service, you may be eligible for expungement. This means your criminal record can be sealed or erased, making it easier to move forward with your life.
Expungement is a powerful tool, especially for those facing criminal charges that could affect employment or personal opportunities.
Avoiding Jail Through Probation or Community Service
Probation and community service are two common alternative sentencing options in misdemeanor cases. Instead of serving time in jail, you may be given a chance to serve your sentence through probation or by completing community service hours. These alternatives are often available for non-violent misdemeanor crimes, such as theft offenses or minor assault and battery cases.
A criminal defense lawyer will provide mitigation to the court to help you avoid jail time while fulfilling the terms of your sentence.
FAQs
1. Can I be charged with a crime under the California Penal Code?
Yes, many criminal charges are based on violations of the California Penal Code. These laws cover a wide range of offenses, including vehicular manslaughter, theft, and assault and battery. If you are facing charges under the California Penal Code, a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your options and defend your rights.
2. What is California Proposition 64, and how does it affect criminal charges?
California Proposition 64 legalized the special use and cultivation of marijuana for adults 21 and older and reduced criminal penalties pertaining to specific marijuana offenses. A criminal defense attorney can help determine if your charges can be reduced or dismissed under California Proposition 64 or other state and federal statutes.
3. Can a restraining order affect my criminal case?
Yes, a restraining order can be filed in cases of domestic violence or threats. Violating a restraining order can lead to additional criminal charges. If a restraining order is part of your case, an experienced criminal law attorney can help you fight against any allegations or find a way to modify the order.
4. What are the consequences of a driver's license suspension after a misdemeanor DUI?
If you're convicted of a misdemeanor DUI in Los Angeles, you may face a driver's license suspension. The duration of the suspension can depend on factors such as whether this is your first offense, your blood alcohol concentration, and your past driving record. While this is often a misdemeanor, the consequences can still be serious, including restricted driving privileges.
5. How does Senate Bill 384 affect my criminal case?
Senate Bill 384 changed how sex crimes are treated in California, specifically regarding sex offender registration. The law made it easier for certain offenders to petition for removal from the registry after completing their sentences.
Contact Our Los Angeles Misdemeanor Lawyer for a Free Consultation Today
If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Los Angeles, you need a legal defense team that will fight for your rights. Even minor criminal charges like petty theft, domestic violence, or DUI can have a serious impact on your future. William S. Kroger Criminal Defense Attorney at Law offers a free consultation to help you understand your options and provide the guidance you need.
Our criminal defense firm has almost 30 years of experience handling all types of criminal charges, from white collar crimes to drug charges, weapons charges, and even homicide cases. Whether you are dealing with sex crimes, theft charges, or complex criminal cases, we are here to help you get the best possible outcome.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced Los Angeles misdemeanor lawyer who will work hard to defend your legal rights.
