Salinas Misdemeanor Lawyer
Get Help from a Seasoned Trial Attorney
Misdemeanor charges are less severe than felonies, but you could still be facing serious penalties and a criminal record, if you are convicted. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, the Law Office of John Klopfenstein can help. Our Salinas misdemeanor attorney in attorney has helped more than 10,000 clients facing criminal charges, including thousands of misdemeanor cases.
If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, call (831) 751-3947 or contact us online for a consultation from our Salinas misdemeanor defense attorney.
Misdemeanors in California
Some common misdemeanors in California include shoplifting, petty theft, DUI, disorderly conduct, probation violations, driving with a suspended license, reckless driving, and public drunkenness. Certain misdemeanors are known as “wobblers” and can be elevated to felony charges. This generally includes situations that involve an aggravating circumstance, such as the victim suffering an injury or the criminal history.
Misdemeanors that are wobblers include:
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- DUI with an injury
- Grand theft
- Second degree burglary
- Embezzlement
- Domestic violence
When a misdemeanor charge is elevated, the criminal penalties are also increased. This means you could be facing incarceration for a longer period of time and bigger fines. Our Salinas misdemeanors lawyer pursues the most favorable outcome possible for our clients from negotiating with prosecutors to presenting your defense in court.
Avoiding a Criminal Conviction
Unless the charge is elevated, a misdemeanor conviction could result in a sentence of up to a year in jail, fines, probation, a requirement to attend certain educational classes, and other penalties. In addition, the situation will cost you time and money, since you will need to pay fines, probation costs, and for other requirements, such as classes or having an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle for DUI charges.
While a misdemeanor is certainly less serious, any criminal conviction may continue to impact your life in the future. Certain jobs, acceptance into universities and certain educational programs, and other career opportunities may be denied to individuals with a criminal record. It is always in your best interests to avoid a conviction whenever possible. You should not hesitate to seek legal advice from an experienced defense attorney after an arrest.
Local Attorney & Former Public Defender
Attorney John Klopfenstein has practiced criminal defense law in the local community for more than 30 years, including 15 years as a public defender in two different public defenders’ offices. As a result, he is familiar with the District Attorneys and Judges who will be handling your case and uses this knowledge and experience for the benefit of our clients.
We offer consultations, including appointments at night and on weekends, when necessary. This is the best way to get accurate information for your case. During your consultation, our Salinas misdemeanors attorney will advise you of the penalties you could be facing, evaluate your case, and answer your questions. He will develop the most effective defense strategy and fight to protect your rights at every stage of the process.
Why Choose Law Office of John Klopfenstein?
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Over 200 Jury Trials to VerdictWe are dedicated to achieving justice for our clients through our extensive trial experience, ensuring they receive the strongest possible defense in the courtroom.
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10,000+ Clients Successfully HelpedOur commitment to justice is reflected in our track record of successfully assisting over 10,000 clients.
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Over 30 Years of Legal ExperienceWith over 30 years of legal experience, we provide unwavering support and advocacy for our clients, ensuring their rights are protected at every turn.
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Initial Consultations AvailableGet started on your defense with a confidential consultation with a member of our legal team.
