Los Angeles Misdemeanor Attorney

Misdemeanors are usually charged by a written complaint or "information" (formal charges without a grand jury). Typically the complaint is mailed to the accused by the prosecutor's office requesting their presence in court at a specified date.

While misdemeanor charges may be considered minor, being accused and/or convicted can have devastating lifelong effects.

Misdemeanor examples include:

DUI (driving under the influence)/DWI (driving while intoxicated): 1st , 2nd, or 3rd
offense, no injuries
Trespass
Petty Theft/Shoplifting
Disorderly Conduct
Obscene Matter
Probation Violations
Unlicensed Driver
Gambling
Solicitation of Prostitution
Violation of Restraining Orders
Reckless Driving
Assault and Battery (no or minimum injury)
Domestic Violence

Many misdemeanors have serious consequences on all areas of your life. For example:
If you are charged with another crime, the misdemeanor can be brought up in court.
If you are applying for a loan or a job, the misdemeanor conviction will shot up on a background check.
If you are facing a "Three Strike" penalty under California law, a misdemeanor could have adverse affects during your trial. A man was sentenced to decades in jail for stealing a slice of pizza, which is nothing more than petty theft. However, because the man had two strikes against him, the misdemeanor meant he faced a heavy prison sentence.

You should never attempt to represent yourself during a misdemeanor trial. You might think you are saving yourself money, or that it's not a serious enough situation, but representing yourself against an experienced prosecutor puts you at a major disadvantage. Without an attorney you're not on a level playing field. Your attorney will be experienced in the California law and able to make decisions and arguments in your favor. Stephen G. Rodriguez has years of experience facing some of the best prosecutors in Los Angeles and can successfully guide you through every step of the process. Having a trusted Los Angeles misdemeanor defense attorney like Mr. Rodriguez means you will have the best chance during a trial.

Stephen G. Rodriguez is an experienced Los Angeles Misdemeanor Attorney. If you have been charged with a Misdemeanor in Los Angeles, and need a criminal defense attorney, call Stephen G. Rodriguez at (213) 223-2173.