COMMON CRIMES

Below you will find a list of some of the most common crimes.  All references are to the California Penal Code (PC), Vehicle Code (VC), Health and Safety Code (HS), and Business and Professions Code (BP).  Click on each crime to learn more about their definitions, penalties, and how Jennifer Monroe can help you.

The summary is intended to give you an overview of what you may be facing, but does not include all of the consequences and potential defenses.  Please contact Jennifer Monroe directly for more information about the crimes listed.

Jennifer Monroe has personally handled all of the crimes listed below.  If you have trouble locating a crime below, please contact Jennifer Monroe directly she has likely handled that crime before and can help you.

Airport Crimes  /  Possession of a Prohibited Item at the Airport – PC 171.5

Possession certain items within any sterile area at the airport are prohibited.  The following are of some of the prohibited items: firearms, knifes, box cutters, grenades, imitation firearm, magazine for a firearm, tear gas, stun gun, BB gun, and ammunition.

Possession of a Prohibited Item at the Airport is a misdemeanor punishable up to 6 months in local jail and or a $1,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

The court may also order a restraining order from the airport and restitution for any costs of evacuations of the airport if one occurred.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Annoying Phone Calls – PC 653

Threatening or annoying telephone calls require the calls were made with the intent to annoy and the calls were repeated, or used obscene language or threats on someone’s life.  

Annoying phone calls is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to a year in local jail depending on the type of call, and up to a $1,000 fine.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Assault  /  Assault with a Deadly Weapon  /  Assault by Force Likely to Produce GBI 
- PC 240, 245

There are several types of assault.  Simple assault is a misdemeanor and is generally charged when you tried to hit someone and missed. 

Simple assault is punishable by up to six months in local jail and or a $1,000 fine.   After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

Assaults on emergency personal or the police are punishable by up to a year in local jail and or a $2,000 fine (which could cost you almost $7,000).

Assault with a deadly weapon is a felony punishable by up to 4 years in the state prison.  If the offense involves a firearm the penalty could go up to 12 years in state prison or more if the firearm was actually used.  The fine is up to $10,000 plus penalty assessments and fees which could be substantial.

Assault by force likely to produce Great Bodily Injury (GBI) is punishable by up to 4 years in state prison and or a fine up to $10,000 plus penalty assessments and fees.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Arson - PC 450, 451, 451.5, 451.5, 452, 452.1

Arson is defined as the willful and malicious burning of a structure, forest land, or property. 

Arson is punishable by a minimum of 16 months in state prison.  Depending on the particular facts of your case, you could receive up to 10 years in state prison.  In some cases you could also be punished up to an additional five years if you have a prior conviction for arson, if someone was seriously hurt, if multiple structures burned, or if you used a device to accelerate the fire or delay ignition.  You will also be responsible to pay restitution for the cost of any damage you caused the victim.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Auto Theft   /   Driving a Stolen Vehicle    /   Possession of Stolen Vehicle  
- PC 487, VC 10851, PC 496

These three crimes are often charged together.  The prosecutor can charge you with stealing the car, and driving and possessing the car you know is stolen. 

Each of these crimes are a felony but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor. Each of these crimes is punishable up to 3 years in state prison.  You will also be responsible to pay restitution for the cost of any damage you caused the victim’s car.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Battery - PC 242

Simple battery is defined as any willful and unwanted force or violence against another.  Battery does not require an injury.  

Battery is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and or a $2,000 fine.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $2,000 fine could cost you almost $7,000.  The court may also order a restraining order and restitution.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Battery – Domestic Violence /  Corporal Injury – Domestic Violence
PC 243, 273.5

Battery involving domestic violence requires the willful and unwanted force or violence against someone who is your spouse, cohabitant, parent of your child, or someone you have or previously had a relationship with.  No injury is required to prove this crime. 
Domestic violence battery is a misdemeanor punishable up to a year in local jail and or a $2,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees, and a 52 week batterer’s treatment program.   The court will also order a restraining order and restitution.

Corporal injury requires the willful infliction of any injury (minor or serious) on someone who is your spouse, cohabitant, parent of your child, or someone you have or previously had a relationship with.  Corporal Injury is a felony but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor. Corporal injury is punishable up to four years in state prison and or a $6,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees, and a 52 week batterer’s treatment program.  The court will also order a restraining order and restitution.

Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background and to help you resolve the problems you are having at the home that brought you before the court.  She wants to get you and your relationship back on the right track.  Depending on the facts of your case, if this is your first domestic violence offense you may qualify for an office hearing, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.   Jennifer Monroe will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Burglary – PC 459

Burglary requires that you entered a house, store, or any structure with the intent to steal or commit another felony offense. 

Burglary is a felony but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor.  Burglary is punishable up to six years in state prison.   The court will also usually require a protective order restraining you from the victim and location.  The court will also require you to pay restitution to the victim for damages or losses.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Carrying Concealed Weapon /   Possession of a Dirk or Dagger – PC 12020

Many weapons are illegal to possess.  For example, having any of the following items in your possession is a violation of carrying a concealed weapons billyclub, throwing star, nunchakus, short-barreled shot gun, metal knuckles, and can sword.  (See Penal Code Section 12020 for a complete list).  In addition, certain knives, also known as dirks or daggers are prohibited from being carried concealed on your person.

These types of weapon offenses are felonies but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor.  These offenses are punishable up to 3 years in state prison.  The court will also require the weapon be destroyed and that you do not possession any weapons if granted probation.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Check Fraud  /  Counterfeiting  /  Forgery – PC 470, 472, 475, 470, 476

These crimes involve altering, possessing, counterfeiting, or passing checks belonging to another or public seals; knowingly passing a bad check of yours or someone; and signing in the name of another with the intent to commit fraud.

These crimes are felonies, but with the exception of counterfeiting, these crimes may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor.

These crimes are all punishable up to 3 years, with the exception of counterfeiting that is punishable up to 4 years in state prison.   The court will also order restitution if there was a loss to the victim.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for diversion, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Child Endangerment /  Corporal Injury to a Child – PC 273a, 273d

Child abuse charges include physical and mental abuse, as well as allowing a child to be placed in a situation where his or her person or health may be endanger.   

Child abuse charges can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or felony.  They are punishable by state prison or county jail, and fines.  The court will also order a protective order and parenting classes.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Criminal Threats – PC 422

A criminal threat involves a willful threat to commit a crime that will result in death or great bodily injury. 

A criminal threat is a felony but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor.  A criminal threat is punishable up to 3 years in state prison.  The court will also order a restraining order.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Disturbing the Peace – PC 415

Disturbing the peace requires unlawfully fighting in public, maliciously and willfully disturbing the peace of someone else, or using offense words in public.

Disturbing the peace is a misdemeanor punishable up to 3 months in county jail and or a $400 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $400 fine could cost you almost $1,500.  The court will also order a restraining order and restitution if appropriate.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, reduction to an infraction, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Driving Without a License  /  Driving on a Suspended License – VC 12500, 14601
Driving without a valid license and driving on a suspected license are misdemeanors.  First time offenders face up to 6 months in jail and heavy fines.  Second offenders who drive on a suspended license face up to a year in jail and larger fines.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, reduction to an infraction, diversion, probation, fines, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Help you get your license back.
• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Driving Under the Influence – VC 23152, VC 23153

Driving under the influence requires that you were driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.  There presumptions that you were under the influence if your blood alcohol content was .08 or higher. 

Driving under the influence can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony depending if there was an accident that resulted to injuries to another person, and the number of prior convictions you have. 

First offenses are prosecuted as misdemeanors and are facing up to six months in jail, fines around $2000, mandatory alcohol classes up to 9 months long, and license suspensions.

Second time offenses are prosecuted as misdemeanors and are facing a minimum of 96 hours to a year in jail, fines over $2000,  mandatory alcohol classes up to 18 months long, and license suspensions.

Third time offenses are prosecuted as misdemeanors and are facing a minimum of 180 days to 1 year in jail, fines over $2000,  mandatory alcohol classes up to 18 months long, and license suspensions.

Fourth time offenses and offenses that caused an injury to someone else (regardless if it is a first offense) are prosecuted as a felony and face state prison.

All convictions for driving under the influence result in points on your driving record.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Drunk in Public – PC 647

Drunk in public requires that you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs and were unable to care for your safety or the safety of others.

Drunk in public is a misdemeanor punishable up to 6months in local jail and or a $1,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Embezzlement  /  Employee Theft  – PC 484, 487, 503

Embezzlement is a form of theft and is commonly known as employee theft.  This type of theft requires the fraudulent appropriation of property (real, personal, or money) from an employer or someone who entrusted the property with you. 

This type of theft is prosecuted as a misdemeanor if the loss is under $400 to the victim.  If the loss is greater than $400 during a 12 month period then the theft is prosecuted as a felony, but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor.

A misdemeanor violation of this type of theft is punishable up to 6 months in local jail and or a $1,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

A felony violation is punishable by up to 3 years in state prison and or a $10,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees depending on the type of theft.

 The court will also order a restraining order and restitution.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Ex-felon Possession of Firearm or Ammo – PC 12021

Persons convicted of felonies are prohibited from possession firearms or ammunition. 

Possession of a firearm by an ex-felon is a felony and is punishable up to 3 years in state prison.   The court will also order the weapon destroyed.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Identity Theft

Identity theft is the newest form of theft and can manifest itself in the form of false personation, credit card fraud, forgery, and theft by false pretenses to name just a few examples.  The law is constantly changing to keep up with the new wave in identity theft crime.  Please contact Jennifer Monroe to review the facts of your case to determine what consequences you may face.

Most identity theft crimes are felonies and punishable by state prison and large fines.

The law is constantly changing to keep up with the new wave in identity theft crime.  Please contact Jennifer Monroe to review the facts of your case to determine what consequences you may face.  You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Infractions  - PC 415, 485, 853.7, 602; VC 12500, 40508, 14601, 23109

Most traffic moving violations are infractions.  For example, if you were stopped for speeding or running a red light you received a ticket for an infraction.  However, if you have multiple violations in twelve months the prosecutor could file a misdemeanor against you.

The following crimes are misdemeanors but may be reduced to an infraction by the judge or prosecutor: disturbing the peace, failure to return lost property, failing to appear in court, some forms of trespass, exhibition of speed, driving without a license, and driving on a suspended license.

Most infractions are punishable by up to a $250 fine that could cost almost a $1,000 after mandatory penalty assessments and fees. 

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of large fines.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Municipal Code Violations

Cities have many code sections regulating citizens, visitors, and businesses.  Municipal Code Violations include regulations of  conduct, weapons, noise, building, driving, business licenses, sidewalks, roadways, and any other problem area affecting local cities.

Most Municipal Code Violations are misdemeanors and can be punished by up to 6 months in jail and or fines.  Municipal Code violations can be reduced to an infraction by the judge or prosecutor.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Petty Theft  /  Petty Theft with Priors  - PC 490.1, 484, 666

Petty Theft requires taking or stealing the personal property of another. 

• If the amount taken is $50 or less then the prosecutor can file a misdemeanor or an infraction.  Most infractions are punishable by up to a $250 fine that could cost almost a $1,000 after mandatory penalty assessments and fees. 

• If the amount taken is $400 or less then it is considered petty theft and a misdemeanor.  A misdemeanor violation of petty theft punishable up to 6 months in local jail and or a $1,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

• If you have prior theft convictions of any kind then it is considered petty theft with a prior and a felony but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor. A felony of petty theft with a prior is punishable up to 3 years in state prison.

The court will also order a restraining order from the location or victim and restitution in theft cases.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Probation Violations

If you are on probation and failed to complete a condition of probation (i.e. a alcohol class, drug program, counseling program, missed a court date, or failed to pay you fine), or committed a new offense, then you are in violation of your probation.

There could be a warrant out for your arrest.  Probation violations warrants are issued by the court if:

• You fail to appear at a court appearance.
• Failed to enroll in your program.
• Dropped out or were kicked out of your program (the programs inform the court).
• Or at the request of the prosecutor for committing a new offense. 

These warrants are issued without any notice to you.  If there is a warrant out for your arrest you can be arrested at any time by police officer and taken to jail. 

If you think you may have a warrant out for your arrest, contact Jennifer Monroe immediately, she will find your warrant for you.  She can also walk you into court on your warrant and fight to keep you out of jail, and save you the inconvenience and embarrassment of being dragged into court in handcuffs by the Sheriff. 

Possession of Controlled Substance – HS 11350, 11377, BP 4060

Simple possession of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, Ecstasy, or and any prescription medication not proscribed to you requires possession or control, or had the right to control the controlled substance.

Simple possession of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, are Ecstasy are felonies and punishable up to 3 years in state prison.

Possession of a prescription medication is a misdemeanor and punishable up to six months in jail.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for drug diversion classes, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Possession for Sale of Controlled Substance  -  HS 11351, 11378
Possession for Sale of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, or Ecstasy requires possession or control or had the right to control the controlled substance with the intent to sell the controlled substance.

Possession for Sale of a Controlled Substance is a felony punishable up to 4 years in prison.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for drug diversion classes, probation, or local jail instead of state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Sale of a Controlled Substance  /  Transportation of a Controlled Substance  - HS 11351, 11352 11379

Sale or transportation of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Heroin, or Ecstasy are felonies punishable up to 5 years in state prison.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for drug diversion classes, probation, or local jail instead of state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Possession  or Use of a Credit Card w/o Consent – PC 484, 530.5

Possession with the intent to use or actual use of someone else’s credit card or credit card information can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony.

A misdemeanor violation of this type of crime is punishable up to a year in local jail and or a fine up to $1,500 plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $5,000. 

A felony violation of this type of crime is punishable up to 3 years in state prison and or a fine up to $10,000 which could be substantial after mandatory penalty assessments and fees.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – HS 11364, BP 4160

Possession of drug paraphernalia includes the possession of crack pipes or other drug paraphernalia to use, ingest, or inject a controlled substance such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or heroin.

Possession of drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor punishable up 6 months in local jail. 

You may be eligible for a dismissal, drug diversion classes, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Possession of Marijuana or Concentrated Cannabis  – HS 11357

Possession of Marijuana requires possession or control or had the right to control the controlled substance.

Possession of marijuana is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, drug diversion classes, probation, or community service instead of a fine.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Possession for Sale of Marijuana – HS 11359

Possession of for Sale of Marijuana requires possession or control or had the right to control the marijuana with the intent to sell.

Possession for Sale of Marijuana is a felony punishable up to 3 years in prison.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for drug diversion classes, probation, or local jail instead of state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Sale of Marijuana  /  Transportation of Marijuana – HS 11360

Sale or transportation of Marijuana is a felony punishable up to 4 years in state prison.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for drug diversion classes, probation, or local jail instead of state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Possession of Stolen Property  - PC 496 

Possession of Stolen Property requires buying or receiving any property that has been stolen and concealing that property from the rightful owner.

Possession of Stolen Property is a felony but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor.

Possession of Stolen Property is punishable up to 3 years in state prison.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Possession of Firearms – PC 12025, 12031

Carrying a concealed firearm in a vehicle or on your person in a public place is a felony but in some cases may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor.

Unlawful possession of a firearm described above is punishable up to 3 years in state prison.  The court will also the firearm destroyed.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Reckless Driving – VC 23103

Reckless Driving involves driving erratically, disobeying the rules of the road, and disregarding the safety of others.

Reckless Driving is a misdemeanor punishable by mandatory local jail and a fine.  Conviction for this offense also results in points on your driving record.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that makes you eligible for diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

•  Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Resisting or Delaying a Peace Officer – PC 148

Resisting or delaying a peace officer requires willful resisting, delaying, or obstructing of any police officer in the performance of their duties.

Resisting or Delaying a Peace Officer is a misdemeanor punishable up to 1 year in local jail and or a $1,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Robbery – PC 211

Robbery requires stealing or taking the personal property of another by force from his or her person or immediate presence.

Robbery is a felony and punishable up to 6 years in state prison.

You may be eligible for a dismissal or lesser charge that qualifies you for probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Trespass – PC 602, 602.1, 602.5

There are many forms of trespass.  In general, trespass requires being on someone else’s property without permission, and refusing to leave.  Trespass can also involve interfering with someone else’s business or entering a residence without permission.

Trespass is a misdemeanor punishable up to 1 year in local jail and or a $2,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

The court will also order a restraining order and restitution if any damage occurred.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Under the Influence of Controlled Substance  - HS 11550

Under the influence of a controlled substance such as methamphetamine, cocaine, or heroin is a misdemeanor. 

Unlike most misdemeanors this crime carries a mandatory minimum of 90 days in jail.  You could also be sentenced up to one year in county jail.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, drug diversion classes, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Vandalism – PC 594

Vandalism requires maliciously defacing with graffiti, damaging, or destroying any real or personal property of another.

Vandalism that causes under $400 in damage is a misdemeanor punishable up to 1 year in local jail and or a $1,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.  After mandatory penalty assessments and fees a $1,000 fine could cost you almost $4,000. 

Vandalism that causes damage over $400 is a felony but may be reduced to a misdemeanor by the judge or prosecutor. Felony vandalism is punishable up to 3 years in state prison and or a $10,000 fine plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees.

The court will also order a restraining order and restitution for any damages or the cost to clean up the graffiti.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail or state prison.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.

Violation of Protective Order  - PC 166

Violation of a protective order requires the willful disobedience of the terms of a court that restrains or regulates contact between two people. 

Violation of a protective order is a misdemeanor punishable up to 1 year in local jail.  Depending on the type of violation, a $5,000 plus mandatory penalty assessments and fees may apply.

The court may also order another criminal restraining order.

You may be eligible for a dismissal, diversion, probation, or community service instead of county jail.  Jennifer Monroe will meet with you to review your case and your background.  She will also:

• Fight to protect your rights.
• Research the defenses that apply to your case.
• Review the facts with you to determine if a lesser charge is appropriate. 
• Present mitigating factors about you and your case to the judge and prosecutor.
• Negotiate the best possible result for your case.