Santa Rosa Misdemeanor Attorney

Santa Rosa Misdemeanor Attorney: Experienced Defense for Your Future

Santa Rosa misdemeanor lawyer at Conway Law defending a client

At Conway Law Trial Attorneys, we understand the stress and uncertainty of facing misdemeanor charges in Santa Rosa. Whether you’re accused of DUI, petty theft, or assault, a conviction can impact your job, relationships, and future opportunities. Our dedicated Santa Rosa misdemeanor attorneys, led by Andrew Conway with over 12 years of criminal defense experience, provide personalized, aggressive representation to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Serving Sonoma County and surrounding areas, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Is a Misdemeanor in California?

Misdemeanors are criminal offenses less severe than felonies but more serious than infractions, as defined by the California Penal Code. They carry penalties of up to one year in county jail, fines up to $1,000, or both, and can result in a permanent criminal record. In Santa Rosa, common misdemeanor charges include:

  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence): A first-time DUI under California Vehicle Code 23152 can lead to 48 hours to 6 months in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a 6-month license suspension.
  • Petty Theft: Stealing property worth $950 or less (Penal Code 484) may result in up to 7 months in jail and fines up to $1,000.
  • Simple Assault: An unlawful attempt to harm someone (Penal Code 240) can carry up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
  • Drug Possession: Possession of small amounts of marijuana or controlled substances for personal use (Health & Safety Code 11350) may lead to up to 1 year in jail.

Navigating these charges requires a deep understanding of Sonoma County’s legal system. Our misdemeanor lawyers at Conway Law have successfully defended hundreds of clients in Santa Rosa, from college students at Sonoma State University to professionals facing career-threatening charges.

Attorney Andrew ConwayWhy Choose Conway Law for Misdemeanor Defense in Santa Rosa?

Facing a misdemeanor charge in Sonoma County Superior Court can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here’s why Conway Law stands out:

  • Proven Experience: Andrew Conway has handled hundreds of misdemeanor cases, securing dismissals, reduced charges, and alternative sentencing for clients.
  • Local Expertise: With deep knowledge of Santa Rosa’s courts, prosecutors, and judges, we tailor defenses to local practices.
  • Personalized Defense: We listen to your story, investigate every detail, and build a strategy that fits your unique situation.
  • Client-Centered Approach: Available 24/7, we prioritize your peace of mind, keeping you informed at every step.

“Andrew Conway fought tirelessly to get my DUI charge reduced to reckless driving, saving my license and job. His compassion and expertise made all the difference.” – J.S., Santa Rosa

How We Defend Misdemeanor Charges in Santa Rosa

Our Santa Rosa misdemeanor lawyers employ proven strategies to challenge charges and protect your future:

  • Case Investigation: We review police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as improper arrests or lack of intent.
  • Negotiation: We negotiate with Sonoma County prosecutors to reduce charges (e.g., DUI to wet reckless) or secure dismissals.
  • Alternative Sentencing: For eligible clients, we pursue diversion programs or community service to avoid jail time and convictions.
  • Trial Advocacy: If your case goes to trial, our experienced trial attorneys fight aggressively in Sonoma County Superior Court to defend your rights.

Consequences of a Misdemeanor Conviction

Even a “minor” misdemeanor can have lasting impacts in Santa Rosa:

  • Employment Challenges: Background checks may reveal a conviction, limiting job opportunities in competitive fields.
  • Housing Barriers: Landlords in Santa Rosa and Rohnert Park may reject applications based on a criminal record.
  • Social Stigma: A conviction can strain personal relationships and community standing.
  • License Suspension: DUI or traffic misdemeanors can lead to DMV penalties, affecting your ability to commute.

Our goal at Conway Law is to minimize or eliminate these consequences through strategic defense and, when applicable, expungement.

Expungement: Clearing Your Misdemeanor Record

Under California Penal Code 1203.4, you may be eligible to expunge a misdemeanor conviction if you’ve completed probation and have no pending charges. Expungement allows you to truthfully state you have not been convicted in most situations, opening doors to jobs and housing. Our process includes:

  1. Eligibility Review: We assess your case to confirm you meet expungement criteria.
  2. Petition Filing: We prepare and file all necessary court documents with Sonoma County Superior Court.
  3. Court Representation: We advocate for you at hearings, addressing any prosecutor objections.

Let us help you move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanor Charges

In Santa Rosa, common misdemeanor charges include DUI, petty theft, simple assault, and drug possession. At Conway Law, our experienced attorneys, with over a decade of defending Sonoma County cases, tailor defenses to each charge, whether it’s challenging evidence or negotiating plea deals. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Under California law, misdemeanors can lead to up to one year in county jail, fines up to $1,000, probation, or community service. For example, a DUI in Sonoma County may also result in license suspension. Conway Law’s Santa Rosa attorneys fight to reduce or dismiss penalties, protecting your record. Call for a free case review.

Yes, California Penal Code 1203.4 allows expungement of many misdemeanor convictions after completing probation. In Santa Rosa, our attorneys at Conway Law guide you through the process to clear your record, improving job and housing prospects. We’ve helped hundreds of Sonoma County clients achieve expungement. Request a free consultation today.

Accepting a plea deal depends on your case’s strength and goals. Our Santa Rosa misdemeanor attorneys, with extensive Sonoma County court experience, analyze evidence and negotiate with prosecutors to secure the best outcome, whether it’s a reduced charge or dismissal. Schedule a free consultation to explore your options.

Look for experience, local knowledge, and a track record of dismissals or reductions. At Conway Law, our Santa Rosa attorneys have over a decade of defending misdemeanor cases in Sonoma County, earning a Super Lawyers award as a top-rated attorney. We offer personalized strategies and transparent fees. Contact us for a free case evaluation.

Contact Our Santa Rosa Misdemeanor Attorneys Today

Don’t let a misdemeanor charge derail your future. At Conway Law Trial Attorneys, our Santa Rosa misdemeanor lawyers are committed to defending your rights in Sonoma County Superior Court and beyond. Whether you’re in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, or Rohnert Park, we offer compassionate, expert representation to achieve the best outcome. Complete the contact form below to schedule your free consultation today or call (707) 608-9942 to discuss your case with Andrew Conway. Your future matters—we’re here to protect it.