Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Harassment Misdemeanor for Threatening

Can a Misdemeanor be plea bargained down?

I just had an arraignment for harassment and peaded not guilty. The plaintiff is determined to go ahead and they claim there was a witness.

A pre trial hearing was set. The only other offense is a domestic violence in 2003 where there was ''no prosecuting witness'' so the charge was dropped.

Will the previous DV charge affect the outcome of my trial? Should I plea bargain?


Asked on 4/02/09, 2:55 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Harassment Misdemeanor for Threatening

Your questions could only be answered after a full review of the facts, rap sheet, discussions with the prosecutor, etc. All you're going to get here is general guidance, such as: yes, cases can sometimes be plea bargained, that's the way the system works and that's what you pay attorneys to do; records and rap sheets always have an effect on outcome, to prosecutors and to the jury. That's up to your attorney to try to stop. If you get serious about getting counsel, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 4/02/09, 4:14 pm
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Harassment Misdemeanor for Threatening

"Bargaining" implies you have something to bargain with. They offer you a better plea and, what? What does the prosecution get in return? You won't fight the charge in pro per? They'll laugh at you. Bring a lawyer to the table and maybe they'll deal.

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Answered on 4/02/09, 3:02 pm


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