Would I be placed under probation? If that is part of your sentencing upon conviction or plea bargain. What should I be looking at for a fine? You should be worried about jail time. Every crime carries potential jail or prison upon conviction. You'll learn the actual charge[s] and any enhancements filed and get copies of all the police reports and prosecutors? evidence when appearing for arraignment at the first court hearing. The charges actually filed by the prosecutor will determine how much time and other penalties could potentially be imposed. In California, if convicted of any misdemeanor, you potentially face up to 12 months in jail, plus fines. Priors will add ?penalty ?enhancement?. If this constitutes a probation violation, factor those new violation charge[s] and old deferred sentence[s] in as well. When charged with any crime, the proper questions are, can any evidence obtained in a test, search or statement be used against you, can you be convicted, and what can you do? Raise all appropriate defenses with whatever witnesses, evidence and sympathies are available for legal arguments, for evidence suppression or other motions, or for trial. Effective plea-bargaining, using those defenses, could possibly reduce the potential ?time? and other penalties you face. While this isn't a 'capital case', you certainly face fines and potential jail, so handle it right. If you don't know how to represent yourself effectively against an experienced prosecutor intending to convict, then hire an attorney who does, who will try to get a dismissal, charge reduction, diversion, program, or other decent outcome through motions, plea bargain, or take it to trial if appropriate.
Answered on Sep 10th, 2012 at 5:28 PM