Misdemeanor Attorney In Fresno

Serious Help For So-Called “Minor” Charges

If you are facing a misdemeanor in Fresno County, you may feel like everyone is telling you it is “no big deal.” In reality, a misdemeanor conviction can affect your job, your record, and your future for years. You deserve clear information and strong representation. At Schweitzer & Davidian, we focus our practice on criminal defense, including misdemeanors in Fresno County Superior Court. Our attorneys bring nearly three decades of combined trial experience to every case, and we are based here in the community with offices in Clovis and Visalia. We take on cases when we believe we can make a meaningful difference, and we work to protect each client’s rights from the very start.

If you have an upcoming court date or you just received a citation or booking paperwork, we encourage you to reach out to our team as soon as possible so we can review your situation and help you understand your options. Call (559) 206-2322 today.

Why Your Misdemeanor Charge Matters

Many people hear the word “misdemeanor” and assume the consequences are always light. Under California law, misdemeanors can still bring fines, potential county jail time, probation, and conditions like classes or community service. For someone who is working, in school, or caring for family, these penalties can be disruptive and stressful. The impact often goes beyond what happens in the courtroom. A misdemeanor on your record can appear on background checks that employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly use. Certain offenses can affect professional or occupational licenses, and some can create immigration problems for non-citizens. Even a case that started with a misunderstanding can follow you long after the case is over.

Early decisions can shape the rest of the case. What you say to the police or in court, whether you try to handle the arraignment alone, and whether you accept the first plea offer all have long-term effects. When we handle misdemeanor criminal defense matters, we pay close attention to these early moments because they often create opportunities to protect your record and reduce the risk of harsh penalties. Understanding what is at stake is the first step. The next step is working with a team that knows how these cases move through Fresno County Superior Court and how to guide you through each stage.

How Our Fresno Defense Team Helps

When you contact Schweitzer & Davidian, we start by listening carefully to your side of the story and reviewing the paperwork you received. Our goal is to give you an honest assessment of your misdemeanor case and to explain where we may be able to help. Our attorneys focus on matters where we see a fair chance to improve the outcome, which allows us to devote real time and attention to each client.

In many cases, involvement as early as possible can help. We look at how the case began, what the police reports say, and whether there may be legal or factual issues to raise. As a misdemeanor criminal defense attorney team based in Fresno County, we appear regularly in Fresno County Superior Court, and we are familiar with local procedures and expectations. We also know that communication is as important as strategy. Throughout a case, we keep clients informed about what is happening and what decisions need to be made. We explain options in plain language, and we do not make major decisions without the client’s input. Our trial background means that when a negotiated resolution is not in a client’s best interest, we are prepared to take the case to trial and present the defense in court.

In a typical misdemeanor case, we may:

• Review police reports and other discovery and identify weaknesses or inconsistencies in the state’s evidence.
• Advise you about the likely range of penalties and collateral consequences for the specific charge you face.
• Guide you through arraignment and other court appearances so you know what to expect at each hearing.
• Discuss options such as diversion programs or alternative resolutions when those may be available.
• Prepare your case for trial when that is the path that best protects your rights and future.

Our founders have built a reputation for being formidable opponents to state and federal prosecutors, and that history comes from years spent in courtrooms handling serious criminal matters. We bring that same level of preparation and focus to misdemeanor cases because we know how much is on the line for you and your family.

Common Misdemeanor Cases We Handle

Misdemeanor charges can arise from many different situations. Some start with a traffic stop, others with a family argument, and others with contact with security or loss prevention at a store. Whatever led to your case, our attorneys handle a wide range of misdemeanor matters in Fresno County, including cases filed in the Fresno, Clovis, and Visalia courthouses.

Common charges include lower-level theft allegations, such as petty theft or shoplifting, and offenses involving property, such as vandalism or trespass. These can carry concerns about restitution, probation, and a record that suggests dishonesty, which employers often take seriously. We know how important it is to look for ways to limit long-term damage to your reputation.

We also see many cases involving interpersonal situations. These can include simple assault, battery, or domestic-related accusations that may bring protective orders or stay-away conditions. Even when physical injuries are minor, a conviction can affect child custody or gun rights, depending on the statute. When we act as a misdemeanor criminal lawyer on these matters, we pay close attention to both the criminal and personal consequences.

Some misdemeanors are tied to driving or substance use, such as driving on a suspended license, first-time DUI, or possession of certain controlled substances in small amounts. These cases can involve license suspensions, mandatory classes, and fines, in addition to any jail exposure. Our role is to help you understand the specific risks in your case and to build a defense strategy that reflects your circumstances and goals.

What To Do After A Misdemeanor Arrest

The hours and days after an arrest or citation can feel confusing. You may have been given paperwork with a court date at the Fresno County Superior Court and very little explanation. Taking a few careful steps now can help protect your rights and put you in a stronger position when you walk into the courtroom.

One of the most important things you can do is be cautious about what you say and who you say it to. Comments to police, alleged victims, friends, or on social media can be used as evidence in a criminal case. It is usually wise to avoid discussing the details of the incident with anyone other than your attorney so that you do not unintentionally hurt your position.

You should also read your citation or notice to appear carefully so you know which courthouse to attend and on what date and time. Missing a court appearance can lead to a warrant and additional problems. Keeping all documents organized in one place makes it easier for a misdemeanor lawyer to review your situation quickly when you meet.

Before your first court date, it can help to:

• Gather any paperwork you received from law enforcement, including citations, booking sheets, or release conditions.
• Write down your recollection of what happened while it is still fresh, including names of any potential witnesses.
• Avoid contacting the alleged victim or other witnesses about the case without first speaking with an attorney.
• Make a note of your court date, time, and location, and plan for transportation and time off work if needed.
• Contact a misdemeanor lawyer Fresno residents trust to review the charge and talk through your options before you appear in court.

Our team regularly meets with people who are facing their very first criminal case and do not know where to start. We walk through the paperwork together, answer questions about the process, and discuss realistic next steps so that you do not have to navigate the Fresno County system alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a misdemeanor in Fresno stay on my record?

A misdemeanor conviction can appear on your record and on background checks. In some situations, there may be options in the future to limit how it affects you, depending on the offense and completion of terms. We can discuss record concerns and potential long-term implications during a consultation.

Can I go to jail for a misdemeanor charge?

Many California misdemeanors carry possible county jail time, although not every case results in incarceration. The risk depends on the statute, your history, and the facts of the case. As your misdemeanor criminal lawyer, we work to reduce penalties and pursue outcomes that minimize or avoid jail whenever possible.

When should I contact a misdemeanor lawyer about my case?

It is usually best to speak with a lawyer as soon as you learn about the charge or upcoming court date. Early advice can help you avoid missteps and prepare for the arraignment. When we are involved from the start, we can review the case and begin planning a strategy before key decisions are made.

How will your attorneys keep me informed about my case?

We make communication a priority. Our attorneys explain what is happening at each stage, discuss options in clear language, and involve you in major decisions about pleas or trial. Clients know they can reach out with questions and expect direct, honest responses as the case moves forward.

How does your local Fresno experience help my misdemeanor case?

Because we are based in Fresno County and regularly appear in Fresno County Superior Court, we understand local procedures and how misdemeanor cases are typically handled here. That practical familiarity allows us to guide you through hearings efficiently and to tailor strategies to the way local courts operate.

Talk To Our Defense Team Today

If you are dealing with a misdemeanor charge, you do not have to guess what comes next or walk into court alone. Speaking with a misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer who knows Fresno County can give you clarity about your risks, your options, and the steps we can take together to protect your future.

At Schweitzer & Davidian, we bring nearly three decades of combined trial experience, a strong reputation in the criminal courts, and a commitment to personal attention in every case we accept. We take time to evaluate your situation honestly, and we work to minimize the impact of the charge on your life, your record, and your family.

To discuss your misdemeanor case in a confidential consultation, call (559) 206-2322

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