First Time Offender; Will I Go To Jail For Battery In Los Angeles? PC 242

California Penal Code section 242 defines battery as any willful use of force or violence on another person. As a first-time offender, it is important to understand the implications of being charged with battery in Los Angeles. Our attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have over 40 years of experience in battery defense. We are ready to answer any questions you have regarding a battery charge in Los Angeles.

The sentencing and punishment for battery in Los Angeles can be severe. Indeed, even as a first-time offender, a battery conviction can lead to a jail sentence. Below is a more detailed explanation of the sentencing and punishment for a battery conviction.

Battery Punishment

Even as a first-time offender, a battery conviction can lead to a jail sentence.

The punishment for battery depends on the nature of the offense.

• Misdemeanor battery (traditional battery) is punishable by a fine not exceeding two-thousand dollars ($2,000) or by imprisonment in county jail for a term not exceeding six months, or both.

• Felony battery (battery with serious bodily injury) is punishable by imprisonment and constitutes a strike under California’s “Three Strikes” legislation. (PC 245)

• Violent contact with a peace officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician or paramedic (among others) is punishable by a fine not exceeding two-thousand dollars ($2,000) or by imprisonment in county jail for a term not exceeding one year, or both

Reduced Sentencing

Fortunately, even in cases where evidence of battery is strong, an established criminal defense law firm like Wallin & Klarich may be able to secure a substantially reduced sentence. In lieu of a lengthy jail sentence, the court may:

• Place you on probation and impose a reduced jail sentence

• Place you on probation with no jail time, but order you to do community service or a work release program

• Place you on probation

Although committing a battery in Los Angeles is a serious charge, our attorneys may be able to use your clean criminal history and raise viable defenses that could entirely release you from criminal liability. Consulting with a Los Angeles Wallin & Klarich battery attorney in the early stages of investigation or upon arrest can help your case tremendously.

Los Angeles Battery Defense Attorney

The  punishment for battery in Los Angeles can change your life profoundly. If you or someone you know has been accused of this offense, you need to contact an experienced Los Angeles Battery Defense Attorrney from Wallin & Klarich. Wallin & Klarich has over 40 years of experience in protecting clients from battery charges. We will carefully review the evidence against you and help you win your case.

If you are a first-time offender facing prosecution for battery in Los Angeles, call our skilled defense attorneys today at 877-4NO-JAIL or 877-466-5245. We can get through this together.