Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Charged with 12020(a)(4), carrying a dagger

Hello.

I just had a arraingment yesterday and now am out on OR. I'm charged with the crime of carrying a dirk and dagger, in violation of California penal code section 12020(a)(4). According to the court paper, it is termed as general misdemeanor. So, I chose to go ahead with a public defender. I have no prior record. I plan to go to law school and I'm determined to win this case. In case I lose, is there a serious chance that I would go to jail? Should I hire a private attorney to increase my chance to win here? Please help me what I should do here.


Asked on 3/29/07, 3:35 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Charged with 12020(a)(4), carrying a dagger

Let's see: you plan on going to law school, but you aren't sure if you need an attorney now to defend you against charges that can put you in jail for six months? Yes, you should get counsel - unless you know how to present your defenses and negotiate effectively with the professional prosecutor that is trying to put you in jail. You are correct that you need to 'win' this case, if you are serious about going to law school. All convictions must be disclosed to the school and State Bar, and are grounds for denial.

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Answered on 3/29/07, 6:16 pm
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Charged with 12020(a)(4), carrying a dagger

You want to go to law school but you decided to use the public defender??!? Public defenders are for people who don't mind pleading guilty (negotiating plea bargains and selling them to defendants is what they do). If you really want to beat the rap, for example if you want to be admitted to the Bar, or if you ever want to get a job again during your lifetime, hire an attorney.

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Answered on 3/29/07, 3:56 pm


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