Medium photo
Michael Berg

Michael Berg, Certified Specialist in Criminal Law

Felony & Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors and Felonies in San Jose

Assisting Silicon Valley and Bay Area Residents with Misdemeanor Level Offenses

Many charges qualify as misdemeanor-level offenses. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, your first instinct may have been to sigh in relief and think, thank goodness it’s not a felony. While it is true that misdemeanor charges are considered less serious than felonies, misdemeanors are not without serious consequences. Indeed, many people are surprised by how significant the penalties for a misdemeanor conviction can be, including:
  • Community service
  • Expensive fines
  • Jail time
  • A criminal record and increased chances that future charges will be made at the felony level
Among the many types of charges that can be considered misdemeanors are simple assault or battery; certain drug crimes; petty theft; and some DUI charges or driving on a suspended license. Misdemeanor offenses are also divided into two categories, “standard” and “aggravated,” with aggravated misdemeanor convictions carrying a harsher penalty.

We have years of experience assisting Silicon Valley and Bay Area residents with misdemeanor level offenses. We want to help you avoid some or all of the penalties that can accompany a misdemeanor conviction. How exactly do we do that? By uncovering the facts of the case and using those facts to defend you from a position of strength. We understand that you are seeking the best possible outcome, and we will do everything possible to achieve that goal.

Felony Charges are the Most Serious Category of Crime

As most people are aware, felony charges are the most serious category of crime you can be charged with. While misdemeanor charges carry a maximum of one year in a county jail, being convicted of a felony can lead to much longer stints in state prison. And certain felonies can lead to a sentence of life in prison or even the death penalty.

Some crimes in the state of California can only be charged at the felony level. These are known as “straight” felonies. Other crimes may be charged at either the misdemeanor or the felony level depending on the facts of the case and factors such as your criminal history. Felonies in the state of California include, but are not limited to:

  • Homicide
  • Sex crimes
  • Serious violent crimes
  • White collar crimes

If you have been charged of a felony in San Jose or anywhere in the Bay Area, you need an experienced defense attorney. We will put our knowledge of prosecutorial procedure to construct a defense strategy that will take advantage of any weaknesses in their case. If it is possible to seek a reduction in the charge to the misdemeanor level we will pursue that option. No matter what felony charge you are facing in San Jose, we may be able to help. Contact us today; consultations are always free.