Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Being charged with 653m(a)

I have many quesitons all rolled into one. I have no criminal background, I did once recieve a trafic ticket for not wearing a seat belt over 10 years ago. I don't feel that I called the other party with the intent to annoy. I did however say I was so angry that I felt like shooting someone. Additionally I own no guns of any sort. To add to my troubles and stupidty I left two messages one one the owner/managers voice mail, and one on the account manager's voice mail, one message I said crock, and the other I said load of bull, not sure if this qualifies as obscene. My first quesiton would be will I have pay bail at my arraignment? Second Question how much money can you make before you are considerd ineligible for a PD? I make about 1000 dollars every two weeks and have one wife and child.

Thirdly, probably the most difficult question, will I have to go to jail if I am convicted? I have done some volunteer work for the local library and for a youth group would it be wise to bring this up in the arraignment? On a side note I know both local judges.


Asked on 1/28/04, 6:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: Being charged with 653m(a)

You need to retain an attorney as soon as possible. If you are unable to hire an attorney, request that the court appoint an attorney. If you do not qualify for the public defender, request the names of attorneys on the modest means panel, if available. The court would have to appoint an attorney if you are unable to hire an attorney and make reasonable efforts to hire an attorney.

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Answered on 1/28/04, 11:41 pm


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