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Nov 01
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I find that many clients that walk into my criminal defense law practice don’t understand what a misdemeanor really is. California Penal Code defines a misdemeanor as a “crime that is considered less serious than a felony but can bring jail time of up to one year with fines totaling up to $2,000.”
A misdemeanor charge results in a criminal record – so although not a felony, it is important to not take it lightly. It will show up on a background check and can have devastating and far reaching effects on your life. Depending on the seriousness of the crime, any injuries to the victim, and if there is a prior criminal record, a misdemeanor can be charged as a felony crime. Shoplifting, domestic violence, drunk driving, possession of stolen property and a loaded gun in a public place could all be charged as felonies.
Inevitably the conversation turns to what punishment would come with this type of charge. Jail (includes house arrest), fines, probation, counseling, restitution to the victim, and/or community service (Cal Trans) can all be applied in the sentence.
A skilled criminal defense attorney right here in the Palm Springs area can make the difference between going to jail and staying out of jail.