While misdemeanor offenses are less serious than felony crimes, conviction of a misdemeanor can result in serious penalties, including probation, fines, suspension of professional licenses, community service, mandatory educational courses, and even jail time.  Indeed, under federal law, California law, and the laws of many other states, misdemeanors may be punishable by up to one year in jail.

As a practical matter, misdemeanors may also have adverse impacts unrelated to the adjudication of the case.  That’s because a misdemeanor conviction generally becomes a permanent part of your criminal record (unless you take steps to remove it), discoverable by prospective employers, landlords, friends and family through a basic public records search.  Having a misdemeanor may cause difficulties when applying for loans, mortgages, leases, license renewals, and even educational assistance.

CONTACT US FOR EXPERT LEGAL GUIDANCE

If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge, it may be in your best interest to seek counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney.  At the Jacobs Law Firm, we never discount the seriousness of misdemeanor charges.  To the contrary, we work closely with our clients to make sure they understand their rights and options.  We thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense and then propose a legal strategy likely to result in the best possible outcome.  For a confidential and complimentary consultation, contact our team today.

FEDERAL AND STATE MISDEMEANOR CRIMES

There are hundreds of federal misdemeanors, which generally involve lower-level offenses related to federal agents, federal property, or the operations of the federal offices and agencies (such as the U.S. Postal Service).  

Common California misdemeanors include the following:

•  Drug possession
•  Driving under the influence
• Driving on a suspended license
• Reckless driving
• Public drunkenness
• Petty theft and shoplifting  
• Assault with a taser or stun gun
• Soliciting prostitution
• Domestic violence
• Probation violations
• Disorderly conduct

Notably, certain California misdemeanors – called “wobblers” – can be charged as felonies at the discretion of the prosecutor depending on the circumstances of the offense.  Examples of “wobbler” misdemeanors in California include:

• DUI resulting in injury
• Domestic violence
• Deadly threats
•  Assault with a deadly weapon
• Grand theft
• Second-degree burglary
• Embezzlement
•  Child abuse
• Child endangerment