The most serious types of crimes that you can face in California are felonies. These crimes are extremely serious, and if you have been arrested for, or charged with a felony crime, it is important to get in touch with a criminal defense lawyer immediately. The penalties for felonies typically include a very hefty jail sentence, and in the case of serious felonies or violent crimes, you may receive the death penalty. A typical sentence for a felony could be a minimum of 16 months in prison. If you have been arrested for robbery, murder, or any type of sex crime like rape, or certain types of drug crimes, get in touch with a criminal defense attorney and ascertain your legal options for defense.

Misdemeanors are slightly more serious offenses and come with tougher penalties involved. For example, misdemeanors have a maximum punishment of between six months and one year in county jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Examples of crimes that fall into the misdemeanor category are vandalism, driving with a suspended license, DUI, and other crimes.

Get Your Expungements Easily Done Nowadays, it is very easy for anybody to access your court records. All that someone needs to do is check for the name of an individual using their date of birth or full name. Once a misdemeanor or felony is expunged from court records, it is not eligible for use by potential employers. Expungements play a very important role in helping an individual to either maintain or secure a professional license. It makes it easy to get a fresh start. Eligibility for Expungement Anyone who was convicted of a felony or misdemeanor offense is eligible for expungement.