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FAQs
Can I represent myself for a misdemeanor?
As the saying goes: “A person representing himself has a fool for a client.” It is always better to hire an experienced attorney to assist you in any legal matter much less a criminal case where the consequence of a conviction would limit future job prospects.
My friend had the exact same thing happen to them and everything worked out fine. I’ll get the same result won’t I?
In an ideal world, everyone would be treated equally and fairly. However, criminal defense is not a mathematical equation where you factor in A plus B and always get the same result. Criminal defense is very dynamic and always changing. Results or outcomes depend upon a lot of factor like who is the judge, who is the defense lawyer, who is the arresting officer, and who is the district attorney. Never assume you will get the same result as a prior case because all cases are treated differently.
I am eligible for probation, surely that means I will get probation?
No. Just because you are eligible for probation does NOT mean that you are entitled to probation. Not all prosecutors or judges see it that way. Your lawyer needs to be able to evaluate your case and explain it to the court why you should receive probation in lieu of jail time.