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Misdemeanor defense

Misdemeanor Defense Attorney in Los Angeles

A misdemeanor is sometimes described as minor, but a conviction can still appear on background checks and affect jobs, licenses and immigration status. Treating it seriously from the start protects your options.

  • A conviction can appear on background checks
  • Attorneys can often appear for you at some hearings
  • Alternatives may exist depending on the case

Why a misdemeanor still matters

Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, but they are still criminal offenses. Beyond what a court may order, a record can matter to employers, landlords, licensing boards and immigration authorities.

Common misdemeanor cases include petty theft, simple assault, some drug possession offenses, trespassing, vandalism, driving on a suspended license and many first-time DUI cases.

How misdemeanor cases usually proceed

  1. Citation or arrest. Many misdemeanor cases begin with a citation and a promise to appear rather than a custodial arrest.
  2. Arraignment. The first court date. In many misdemeanor cases a defense attorney can appear on your behalf, which can save you time away from work.
  3. Pretrial conferences. Evidence is exchanged and the defense can raise issues with the prosecution.
  4. Resolution. Outcomes range from dismissal to negotiated resolutions to trial, depending on the evidence and the circumstances.

Options that may be worth exploring

Depending on the offense, your history and the county’s programs, there may be alternatives to a traditional conviction, such as diversion or other arrangements that can lead to a dismissal after certain conditions are met. Eligibility varies widely, so these are possibilities to evaluate, not promises.

  • Challenging the evidence or how it was obtained
  • Exploring diversion or alternative programs where available
  • Negotiating for a reduced or different charge
  • Taking the case to trial when the evidence is weak

Before your first court date

  • Find your citation or court notice and confirm the date, time and courthouse.
  • Do not ignore the date. Failing to appear can lead to a warrant.
  • Write down what happened and who was present.
  • Think about what matters most to you beyond the case: work, licensing, immigration, travel.
  • Call a defense attorney before the arraignment if you can.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to go to court for a misdemeanor?
In many misdemeanor cases, an attorney can appear for you at certain hearings. Whether that applies depends on the charge and the court, so ask before your date.
Will a misdemeanor show up on a background check?
A conviction can appear on many background checks. That is one reason to look carefully at every option before resolving a case.
What is diversion?
Diversion generally refers to programs that allow some people to complete conditions in exchange for the case being dismissed. Availability and eligibility depend on the offense and the circumstances.

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Free, confidential consultation

Call 818-400-0293 or email Asya@Ovsepyan-Law.com. Office: 15303 Ventura Blvd., Suite 900, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403.