Do You Need a Lawyer For a Misdemeanor Arrest?

Misdemeanor offenses usually carry a lighter sentence and have fewer serious consequences than felony offenses do. Does that mean that it isn't necessary to hire a San Diego criminal defense attorney?

While it is true that felonies are more serious, misdemeanor offenses have consequences that you may not be aware of. In addition to fines, jail time and community service, a misdemeanor offense can jeopardize your living, career and monetary prospects in the future.

If you are facing a misdemeanor charge in San Diego, you need to speak with an experienced San Diego criminal defense lawyer right away. You have the right to protect your freedom when facing a misdemeanor charge. Don't let that opportunity go. Instead, call the Law Office of Joni Eisenstein for expert counsel in fighting your misdemeanor offense.

What are the consequences of a misdemeanor conviction?

There are certain penalties that will be assessed by the court if you are convicted of a misdemeanor offense. You may be subject to fines up to $1,000 and time in county jail for up to six months. You may also be required to attend classes or perform community service.

In most cases, the punishments don't end there. There are other consequences that many defendants are not aware of. Many of these are outside of the legal system. In the state of California, there are things called collateral consequences that come along with criminal convictions. Some examples of collateral consequences include restrictions on entering certain career fields and the revocation of federal assistance programs such as unemployment or Medi-Cal.

In addition, a criminal conviction will stay on your permanent criminal record. This information may be accessed by potential employers, educational institutions, licensure bodies and landlords. It is important that you recognize that a misdemeanor conviction on your record could impact your ability to work and live in the future.

Hire A San Diego Defense Lawyer

With the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you may have a better chance of successfully fighting your charges. A reputable and skilled attorney will understand the California laws related to your offense and help you put up the strongest defense possible. San Diego defense attorneys like Joni Eisenstein work tirelessly on behalf of their clients, including those facing misdemeanor charges.

There are a number of valid benefits to hiring an attorney when facing misdemeanor charges:

If you attempt to defend yourself in court, the prosecutor will likely eat you alive. You will not have adequate knowledge of the law and court procedures to successfully defend yourself in most cases. A savvy prosecutor may try to trick you or use their experience against you. When fighting any kind of criminal charge, it is in your best interest to have a skilled defense team on your side.

When you hire a defense attorney, she will perform an investigation based on the facts of the case to help you combat the prosecution in court. Because of her understanding of the law regarding the collection and use of evidence, she will ensure that law enforcement, prosecutors and anyone else involved in the case have not violated laws in the process of investigating you.

San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney Joni Eisenstein

Whenever you are facing criminal charges, whether a misdemeanor or felony offense, it is important that you work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Choose an attorney who understands the San Diego law and has experience in the courtroom.

Our attorney has been working in the San Diego courts since 2003. Through her hard work, research and understanding of the law, she will work on your behalf to fight your charges and get you the best possible results.

Do not think that a misdemeanor charge does not need to be taken seriously. Any criminal charge can stay on your record and impact your ability to work in certain fields, obtain an educational loan, get an apartment or qualify for a mortgage. With one call to our attorney, you can get started defending your freedom. If you already have a criminal record, speak to Joni Eisenstein to learn more about the San Diego expungement process. 

Don’t wait. Contact our office today for your free consultation.