Dublin Misdemeanor & Felony Criminal Defense Lawyer

Fighting Against Misdemeanor & Felony Charges in the Tri-Valley Area

Criminal charges may disrupt your life and make you anxious for your future. While any conviction for a crime can affect your livelihood, your opportunities, and your personal life, some charges are more serious than others and carry the potential for negative consequences that will last the rest of your life.

At The Law Office of Christopher A. Lamiero, we work hard to help you understand the nature of the offense and the possible effects a conviction may have on your life. Knowing what you are up against may help you participate more fully in the construction of a strong defense strategy.

Learn more about where you stand and your legal options. Contact our Dublin misdemeanors and felonies defense attorney at (925) 259-3337.

What are Misdemeanor Crimes in Dublin, CA?

Misdemeanors are typically minor crimes that don't involve serious injury. They fall into two groups: standard misdemeanors and aggravated misdemeanors. Standard misdemeanors are punishable by up to six months in jail and/or fines of up to $1,000. You may be put on probation in lieu of jail time. Aggravated misdemeanors carry penalties of up to a year in jail and/or fines of $1,000 or more.

You may feel the penalties of a misdemeanor are tolerable and that accepting a plea could just make the whole ordeal go away much faster. However, a conviction for a misdemeanor remains on your record unless you are eligible for the complex expungement process or participate in a diversion program. The better option is to avoid the conviction altogether. An experienced criminal defense attorney can work toward that goal.

Examples of California crimes charged as misdemeanors include:

• Simple drug possession
• DUI (without injury or other aggravating factors)
• Shoplifting
• Public drunkenness
• Prostitution
• Trespassing
• Domestic violence
• Restraining order violations
• Driving with a suspended license
• Reckless driving
• Disturbing the peace

How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record in California?

In California, misdemeanors remain on your criminal record indefinitely, which means they are accessible to law enforcement agencies, employers, and the public. However, under certain circumstances, it is possible to mitigate the long-term impact of a misdemeanor conviction. One avenue is expungement, a legal process that allows individuals to have their misdemeanor convictions dismissed from their records. After a misdemeanor is dismissed, you are not required to disclose the information to an employer.

You can qualify for a misdemeanor dismissal if you successfully completed your probation sentence along with not serving prison time for your conviction. You cannot qualify for a dismissal if you are currently facing criminal charges or are on probation.

What are the Long Term Consequences of Misdemeanor Charges?

Even though misdemeanors are considered minor crimes, they can still have significant consequences on your life. It's important to understand the potential impact of misdemeanor charges and how they can affect your future.

Some potential consequences of misdemeanor charges include:

• Difficulty finding employment
• Limited housing options
• Loss of professional licenses
• Negative impact on immigration status
• Difficulty obtaining loans or financial aid

Having an experienced misdemeanor defense lawyer on your side can make a difference in the outcome of your case. At The Law Office Of Christopher A. Lamiero, we have over 30 years of experience in the tri-valley area and can provide the high-quality representation you need to navigate through misdemeanor charges.

What is a Felony in Dublin, CA?

Convictions for more serious crimes called felonies carry severe penalties, including longer sentences — perhaps even life — in state prison. These felonies are often violent crimes such as murder, voluntary manslaughter, mayhem, rape, forcible sodomy, arson, hit and run, carjacking, drive-by shooting, or crimes against children. However, they may also be nonviolent crimes that society considers especially heinous, like a fourth DUI within 10 years, white collar crimes, or grand theft.

Being charged with a felony can completely alter the trajectory of your life, stripping you of vital personal freedoms and professional opportunities. A felony conviction can lead to the loss of civil rights, such as the ability to vote or serve on a jury. You may also face lifelong challenges, including difficulties in securing stable employment, housing, or qualifying for financial aid. Moreover, if you have previous convictions, serious felonies may invoke California's "three strikes" law, leading to mandatory severe sentencing. This highlights the critical need for a competent felony defense attorney who can navigate these complexities and safeguard your future.

What are Common Defenses Against a Felony?

When facing felony charges in Alameda County, having a robust defense strategy is essential. Defense attorneys at The Law Office Of Christopher A. Lamiero excel at crafting personalized defense approaches that consider the specifics of your situation and the broader legal landscape in California. Depending on the details, defense strategies might include challenging the evidence's sufficiency, questioning the legality of how evidence was obtained, or negotiating reduced charges.

Additionally, understanding local Alameda County court processes and prosecutors' tendencies can provide a cutting edge in forming an effective defense. Drawing on past experience as former prosecutors, our team is poised to exploit weaknesses in the case against you and advocate assertively for your rights. We prioritize safeguarding your future by employing strategies that seek the least punitive outcomes possible, aiming for charge reduction or case dismissal when feasible.

How Long Does a Felony Stay on Your Record in California?

In California, a felony conviction stays on your record permanently unless expunged, reduced, or pardoned. Expungement under Penal Code § 1203.4 is possible for felonies without state prison time, allowing removal from public background checks. Certain felonies, known as "wobblers," may be reduced to misdemeanors under Penal Code § 17(b) if probation was successfully completed. Felonies remain on background checks indefinitely, but California’s Fair Chance Act limits employer inquiries. A Governor’s Pardon can restore rights but does not erase the conviction. Legal options exist to minimize a felony’s impact on employment and civil rights.

Contact Our Misdemeanor and Felony Attorney in Dublin, CA Today

At The Law Office Of Christopher A. Lamiero, we focus on defending the rights of the residents of Alameda County and surrounding regions with energy and determination, whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges. When your future and freedom are on the line, it is vital that you have a tried and tested legal advocate working solely to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Whether through negotiation with the prosecutor or by representing you at trial, Attorney Christopher Lamiero will put all of his vast experience and knowledge into your defense.

Call us now at (925) 259-3337 for a free case evaluation and discover your defense options. Use our online form to schedule a consultation.