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Misdemeanor crimes in Southern California carry lesser penalties than felonies, but you should never shrug the charges off as a minor legal problem. Misdemeanor convictions have consequences that can follow you long after you complete your sentence. But there’s good news — many misdemeanors in California qualify for expungement, which clears your criminal record in qualifying situations. Expunging a misdemeanor can shield you from some difficult consequences you might face otherwise, such as problems finding a job or housing.
Of course, the best result is to avoid a conviction altogether. At the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, we take defending clients charged with misdemeanor crimes in Van Nuys, CA just as seriously as those accused of felonies. We understand that any type of criminal conviction can seriously impact your life. Our firm will use every legal tool in our arsenal to help you avoid the worst possible outcomes.
To learn your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with a Van Nuys misdemeanor defense attorney.
Why You Need a Misdemeanor Crime Attorney in Van Nuys
Even though a misdemeanor charge in Van Nuys seems less serious than a felony crime, it’s not something to take lightly. Even a misdemeanor conviction can lead to jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. These penalties can affect your employment prospects and ability to find housing and damage personal relationships. A skilled criminal defense attorney can develop a strategy to fight the charges and restore your good name.
A misdemeanor crime attorney will analyze the evidence against you, challenge weak or improper charges, and negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss your case. If the case goes to trial, your criminal lawyer can fight to protect your rights and present the strongest possible defense.
Attorney Justin E. Sterling has extensive experience with misdemeanor cases in Van Nuys and a proven record of helping people avoid the worst outcomes in complex cases. With over 20 years of legal experience in criminal law, including many years as a former Los Angeles County Public Defender, Justin E. Sterling understands the stakes in these cases and how to protect your future.
Our law firm uses leading expert witnesses to challenge weak evidence and find gaps in the prosecution’s arguments. This proactive, detail-oriented approach helps us protect your future when it matters most. Here’s what one satisfied client said about their experience with our firm:
“Mr. Sterling is a compassionate attorney and person. He goes the extra mile for his clients. He has done so for me on more than one occasion.” – P.S.
What Are Misdemeanors in California?
Misdemeanors in California are more severe than infractions (minor violations of the law like traffic tickets) but less severe than felonies. The key features of misdemeanors in California are:
- Offenders convicted of misdemeanors serve their sentence in county jails instead of state prisons.
- The maximum jail sentence for most misdemeanors is six months, though certain aggravated misdemeanors carry sentences of up to 364 days.
- The maximum fine for most misdemeanors is $1,000.
- Most misdemeanor offenders qualify for probation.
- Probation for misdemeanor crimes is usually informal, meaning offenders typically aren’t supervised and don’t have to report to a designated probation officer.
- Many misdemeanor charges can be dismissed if offenders complete diversionary programs.
Even though misdemeanor cases carry lighter penalties, the criminal justice system in California takes every charge seriously. The prosecutor and law enforcement officers look for every possible way to secure convictions for defendants.
Frequently Charged Misdemeanor Offenses in Van Nuys
Misdemeanors in Van Nuys cover a wide range of offenses, but some of the most common misdemeanor crimes include:
- DUI (in certain cases)
- Petty theft
- Certain domestic battery charges
- Vandalism
- Public intoxication
- Trespassing
- Simple assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Prostitution or solicitation
- Driving without a valid license
- Reckless driving
- Possession of a controlled substance (in small amounts)
- Shoplifting
- Resisting arrest
- Indecent exposure
What Is the Legal Process for a Misdemeanor Charge?
The legal process for a misdemeanor charge in California begins with an arrest or a citation. If arrested, the person is typically booked into the local county jail and may be released on bail or their own recognizance. In some cases, they may receive a notice to appear in court. The first court appearance is an arraignment, where the defendant hears the charges read by a judge and enters a plea — guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
If the defendant pleads not guilty, the case moves to the pretrial phase. During this stage, attorneys review evidence, file motions, and negotiate with the prosecution. The defense may challenge evidence, seek to suppress statements, or push for a dismissal of charges. Many misdemeanor cases conclude during this phase through plea deals or dismissals.
If the case isn’t resolved in the pretrial phase, it proceeds to trial. Misdemeanor trials in California are typically jury trials. Defendants can choose a bench trial, where a judge decides the defendant’s guilt or innocence while overseeing the case.
At trial, both sides present evidence and arguments. If convicted, the court will impose a sentence. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can guide you through each step and enforce your rights while advocating for the best possible outcome.
Penalties for Misdemeanor Convictions
Penalties for misdemeanors in Van Nuys can include fines, jail time, probation, and more. In most circumstances, the maximum jail sentence for misdemeanors is six months and the maximum fine for most misdemeanors is $1,000.
In some cases, people accused of misdemeanors can complete diversionary programs (e.g., treatment for drug addiction) to have their charges dismissed rather than on their permanent records. Your lawyer can explain the possible penalties you might face for your specific misdemeanor charge.
Common Defenses to Misdemeanor Charges
Defending against misdemeanor charges often involves challenging the evidence or proving that the prosecution cannot meet the burden of proof. Common defenses include demonstrating that the defendant did not commit the alleged act, such as presenting an alibi or proving that the allegations were based on mistaken identity. In some cases, an attorney might argue that the defendant acted in self-defense or defense of others, particularly in charges like assault or battery.
Another defense could involve challenging the legality of the arrest or evidence collection. For example, if law enforcement violated the defendant’s constitutional rights — such as conducting an unlawful search — key evidence might be excluded, weakening the prosecution’s case and compelling them to drop the charges.
Alternatively, the defense could argue that the defendant lacked intent to commit a crime, especially in cases like theft, where intent is crucial. A seasoned misdemeanor defense attorney will evaluate the specifics of your case to identify the most effective defense strategy(s).
Contact the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling Today
Don’t make the mistake of not getting legal representation when charged with misdemeanor crimes in Van Nuys. Call the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.
