El Cajon Misdemeanor Lawyer
El Cajon Misdemeanor Attorney
If you are being charged with a misdemeanor in El Cajon, California, it is very important that you know how these crimes are classed and punished. Even though misdemeanors may not seem as damaging as felonies, they can still land you jail time, fines, and problems that last a long time. An El Cajon misdemeanor lawyer can help you if you are facing minor charges. A lawyer can help you obtain the most optimal outcome.
Why Choose Lee Law Group?
At Lee Law Group, our goal is to give people in El Cajon and the nearby areas the greatest legal defense possible for misdemeanor cases. We have worked in California’s criminal justice system for years and understand its complexities. We put clients first and make sure you know what’s going on at all times.
Our method is based on the specific needs of each client and aims to achieve positive outcomes like lowered charges or different sentencing options. You can count on us to protect your rights and security.
What Do California Misdemeanors Look Like?
In California, misdemeanors are serious crimes that can lead to significant time in jail and fines. Some states divide misdemeanors into different levels or classes, but California’s laws outline the exact punishment for each crime.
Common Misdemeanors in California
Some of the most common misdemeanors in California include:
- Simple assault
- Simple battery
- Stealing
- Vandalism
- Stalking
- Drug possession
Each of these offenses come with their own penalties that will depend on the circumstances and severity surrounding the crime. Some misdemeanors may have harsher punishments if they are committed against protected groups, like police officers or the elderly, or if the defendant has been convicted of the crime before.
How to Understand Wobblers: Misdemeanor or Felony?
California also has a group of crimes called “wobblers.” A wobbler crime is one that can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony. It depends on the details of the case and the person’s past criminal history as to whether these crimes are misdemeanors or felonies. Some examples of wobblers include:
- Attack with a deadly weapon
- Theft of property worth more than a certain financial amount
- Computer hacking
First, the prosecutor will choose whether to charge a wobbler as a misdemeanor or a felony. However, during sentencing or even after probation has been given, the judge can change a felony charge to a misdemeanor. These crimes can sometimes be lowered to infractions, which have lighter punishments.
Penalties for Being Convicted of a Misdemeanor
Depending on the crime and the situation, misdemeanors can lead to anything from community service to fines or even jail time. Sometimes, offenders can completely avoid jail time with the following options:
- This is when the person is watched by the court for a certain period of time. They may have to go to therapy, show up for regular check-ins, and avoid doing anything illegal.
- House arrest. When someone is placed under house arrest, they serve their time at home, usually while being watched electronically.
- Community service. As part of a sentence, the court may order community service.
- This means the convicted person may have to pay the victim back for any money they lost because of the crime.
Good behavior points and work programs can also cut down on the time someone spends in jail.
Will I Go to Jail for a Misdemeanor?
Not everyone who is found guilty of a crime goes to jail. The result can be affected by things like the type of crime, your previous criminal record, and how well your defense works. For first-time offenders in particular, courts often give more weight to alternatives to jail time like probation or house arrest. On the other hand, people who break the law more than once or who commit more serious misdemeanors may have to go to jail.
FAQs
Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor in California?
A: There is no rule in California that says you need a lawyer for a misdemeanor, but hiring one can greatly increase your chances of obtaining a favorable result. Even for misdemeanors, jail time, fines, and a criminal record are possible; a lawyer can help lower the charges, work out a plea deal, or even get the case thrown out. A lawyer will look out for your rights and help you understand your legal options.
Q: How Do You Get a Misdemeanor Dismissed in California?
A: A misdemeanor in California can be dismissed in a variety of ways. You could strike a plea deal, prove inadequate evidence, or demonstrate constitutional infractions such as unconstitutional search and seizure. Additionally, completing a diversion program may result in dismissal in some situations. A professional defense attorney can assess your situation and advise you on the most appropriate course of action for pursuing dismissal.
Q: How Serious Is a Misdemeanor in California?
A: Misdemeanors in California are less serious than felonies, but they still carry significant punishments such as jail time, fines, probation, or community service. They can also lead to a criminal record, which can affect job prospects, housing, and immigration status. Misdemeanors should not be treated lightly; they might have long-term implications.
Q: How Long Does It Take for a Misdemeanor to Go Away in California?
A: Unless they are removed, misdemeanors remain on your criminal record indefinitely. After serving your whole term, including probation, you can request an expungement. Although the conviction is revoked after it is granted, some background checks may still show it. Depending on the intricacy of your case and the availability of the court, the expungement procedure usually takes a long time. The process can be aided by an attorney.
Contact Lee Law Group
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, Lee Law Group can help you in the legal process. Contact us today to get started. With our legal team on your side, you will be better suited to defend yourself and potentially get your charges reduced. With our support, you can trust that you are getting the quality legal representation you deserve.
