San Mateo County Misdemeanor Defense Attorney
Facing a misdemeanor charge in San Mateo County? The Askar Law Firm provides criminal defense representation for a wide range of misdemeanor offenses. Attorney Ahmad Askar works directly with clients from the initial consultation through negotiations, motions, and jury trial when necessary.
Misdemeanor Charges We Defend in San Mateo County
California misdemeanor charges can carry consequences that extend beyond fines or probation, including jail exposure, employment concerns, professional licensing issues, immigration consequences, and a criminal record. The Askar Law Firm represents clients facing a broad range of misdemeanor allegations and evaluates each case based on its individual facts, evidence, and the client's priorities.
Battery and assault
Domestic violence
DUI Defense
Petty theft and shoplifting
Hit-and-run
Vandalism
Trespassing
Driving on a suspended license
Public intoxication
Drug possession offenses
Resisting, delaying, or obstructing an officer
Disturbing the peace
Restraining order violations
Solicitation offenses
Other California misdemeanor charges
The charge on a police report or complaint does not determine the outcome of a case. Depending on the circumstances, defense strategy may involve challenging the prosecution's evidence, filing motions, negotiating for reduced charges or alternative resolutions, pursuing diversion when legally available, or taking the case to trial.
How a Misdemeanor Case Can Be Defended
There is no single strategy that applies to every misdemeanor case. The first step is understanding what the prosecution can actually prove and identifying weaknesses in the evidence. That may include reviewing police reports, body-worn camera footage, witness statements, photographs, video, recordings, and other available evidence.
Depending on the facts and the client's goals, a case may involve negotiating for a dismissal or reduced charge, seeking diversion when legally available, filing appropriate motions, or preparing for trial. When a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached, The Askar Law Firm is prepared to take misdemeanor cases through jury trial.
For noncitizen clients, potential immigration consequences can also be important when evaluating a proposed resolution. Criminal and immigration consequences can interact in significant ways, so those concerns should be identified before resolving a criminal case.
Misdemeanor Defense Throughout San Mateo County
The Askar Law Firm is based in Redwood City and represents people facing misdemeanor charges throughout San Mateo County. Attorney Ahmad Askar handles cases from the initial court appearance through pretrial proceedings, negotiations, motions, and jury trial when necessary.
The firm represents clients from communities throughout the county, including Redwood City, San Mateo, Daly City, South San Francisco, Menlo Park, East Palo Alto, San Bruno, Burlingame, Millbrae, Belmont, San Carlos, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, and surrounding areas.
Clients work directly with Ahmad throughout their case. Ahmad speaks Arabic, and Spanish-speaking clients have access to an experienced Spanish-speaking assistant. Free consultations are available.
Frequently Asked Questions: California Misdemeanor Charges
Can a misdemeanor charge be dismissed?
A misdemeanor charge can sometimes be dismissed, but the available options depend on the facts, evidence, charge, and procedural history of the case. Possible paths may include challenging the prosecution's evidence, successful motions, negotiation, or completion of an available diversion program.
Can I get diversion for a misdemeanor in California?
Diversion may be available in some misdemeanor cases. Eligibility depends on factors including the particular offense, the type of diversion being considered, and the circumstances of the case. If diversion is available, successful completion can potentially result in dismissal of the criminal charge.
Do I have to appear in court for a misdemeanor?
Not always. California law permits an attorney to appear on behalf of a defendant in many misdemeanor proceedings, although there are circumstances in which the defendant's personal appearance may be required. Ahmad will advise you when you need to appear personally.
Should I hire an attorney for a misdemeanor charge?
A misdemeanor is a criminal charge and can have consequences beyond the immediate court case. An attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify potential defenses, communicate with the prosecution, advise you about possible resolutions, and take the case to trial when appropriate.
Will a misdemeanor affect my immigration status?
Some criminal charges and convictions can have immigration consequences for noncitizens. The effect depends on factors including the particular offense, the person's immigration status, and how the criminal case is resolved. Potential immigration consequences should be considered before accepting a plea or other resolution.
Do you handle misdemeanor cases throughout San Mateo County?
Yes. The Askar Law Firm is based in Redwood City and represents clients facing misdemeanor charges throughout San Mateo County.
Speak With a San Mateo County Misdemeanor Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested, cited, or charged with a misdemeanor in San Mateo County, contact The Askar Law Firm to discuss your case directly with attorney Ahmad Askar. Free consultations are available.