Norwalk Misdemeanor Attorney
Facing a misdemeanor charge in Norwalk, California, can find one dealing with major disruptions to their life, both personally and professionally. Whether you have been charged with petty theft at a gas station in Carmenita or minor assault in Fulton Wells, a dedicated and experienced Norwalk misdemeanor lawyer can fight to defend you against penalties such as jail time and hefty fines. With decades of experience, Shield Law, APC is here for you.
As a former prosecutor, the lead criminal defense attorney at Shield Law, APC, has an outstanding understanding of how criminal cases work. He also boasts a strong track record when it comes to defending and working tirelessly for clients who face a large range of criminal charges, including those related to misdemeanors.
Shield Law, APC has seen many of their client’s cases dismissed and has been there to offer our clients confidence any time they are required to enter the Norwalk Superior Courthouse on Norwalk Boulevard.
Defining Misdemeanor Crimes in Norwalk, California
In 2022, misdemeanor crimes in California decreased by 3.7%. However, charges for crimes of this nature are still happening every day, and when you are accused of committing a misdemeanor crime, you need a misdemeanor law firm based in Los Angeles County that can help you fight these charges. In California, misdemeanor crimes are typically not as serious as their felony counterparts but can still be accompanied by severe penalties.
In Norwalk, there are two main kinds of misdemeanors as defined under state law. These include standard misdemeanors and gross or aggravated misdemeanors. Typically, in cases of gross or aggravated misdemeanors, periods of imprisonment are longer, and fines are at much higher dollar amounts.
At Shield Law, APC, we are here to fight for your rights in many cases where misdemeanor charges have been brought against you. The most common misdemeanor crimes in Norwalk include the following:
- Drug possession. These offenses often involve situations in which an individual has allegedly been discovered to have a small number of controlled substances, such as heroin or cocaine, on their person or in their surroundings.
- Driving under the influence. In California, it is illegal to operate a motorized vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When such an instance does occur, the driver may have a shorter or slower reaction time, therefore causing accidents to become more likely.
- Assault and battery. These charges are considered violent crimes and can bring about serious penalties, such as lengthy jail sentences, large fines, and probation if you are successfully convicted.
- Domestic violence. In California, instances of domestic violence can arise when members of the same family, those involved in an intimate relationship, or individuals living in the same household act in physical, emotional, mental, or financial abuse against another. Crimes of domestic violence can include domestic battery, and having an attorney on your side is crucial.
- Petty theft. In 2022, California saw a dramatic 7% increase in petty theft and retail theft when compared to the years that took place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Petty theft usually includes stealing items that are valued at $950 or less.
Other misdemeanor crimes can include resisting arrest, trespassing, or public intoxication. If you are facing any of these kinds of charges, now is the time to reach out to the trusted team at Shield Law, APC.
Why Hire a Misdemeanor Lawyer?
Even though you might find yourself facing less severe sentences than those accompanying felony crimes, it is still imperative that you seek the counsel of a criminal defense lawyer, as even misdemeanor crime convictions can lead to long-lasting consequences. When you hire a misdemeanor lawyer to defend you, it can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Some of the most common defenses they may be able to use include:
- That you were acting in self-defense or in the defense of others.
- That you have suffered a mistaken identity and are not actually the person who allegedly committed the crime.
- That you have an alibi for the time and place of the alleged crime.
- That the alleged crime was just a misunderstanding.
FAQs
In California, a wobbler is a crime that can be either tried as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the exact details of the crime that has allegedly taken place. There are several different crimes that may be considered as a wobbler offense, including burglary, grand theft, certain sex crimes, stalking, forgery, and domestic violence.
When an individual ignores a misdemeanor charge in California, it can see them winding up with a bench warrant being issued for their arrest. Though the last decade has brought a 49% decrease in misdemeanor convictions, these situations still occur, and your penalties can be increased if you are found guilty of both the crime and ignoring the charges in the first place.
Depending on the nature and severity of your misdemeanor charge, there are several different penalties that one might face if successfully convicted. These penalties can include jail time, restitution payments, fines, community service, informal probation, house arrest, counseling, and being required to take certain classes or complete certain diversion programs.
In California, you may be able to get your misdemeanor charge dismissed under certain situations, such as when there is evidence of procedural errors in your case, insufficient evidence produced by the prosecution, or you have successfully completed an approved diversion program. Your attorney can review your case and determine if any of these strategies work for you.
Norwalk Misdemeanor Lawyer
Understanding the complexities of the California criminal justice system can feel impossible. At Shield Law, APC, our track record speaks for itself when we say we understand this system and know how to defend you against any misdemeanor charges you may be facing. We are ready to hear your story and evaluate your case, deciding on the correct defense strategy to uphold your innocence. Contact us today to set up an appointment with our experienced team.