Practice Area

Harrison Patterson and O’Connor’s San Diego criminal defense attorneys handle not only serious felony cases, but also regularly defend individuals accused of misdemeanors. Our criminal defense practice in San Diego is headed up by Matthew O’Connor, who is a former deputy district attorney and who now brings his experience, knowledge and intricate understanding of the criminal process to our clients. Misdemeanors are generally less serious crimes and can include theft related offenses, crimes against persons such as assault and battery, drug possession, domestic violence, and drunk driving cases or DUIs. Generally, misdemeanor crimes are punishable by sentences ranging from a fine to custody time of no more than one year in county jail.

Our San Diego criminal defense attorneys understand that while misdemeanors may have smaller penalties than felonies, a misdemeanor conviction can cause you far ranging problems: from raising a red flag during employment background checks to being barred from possessing firearms for ten years. Accordingly, it is important that an individual accused of a misdemeanor not take it lightly, but consult with an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney to protect his or her rights. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can also negotiate “alternative dispositions” in misdemeanor cases – such as a civil compromise in lieu of a criminal prosecution. Likewise, in certain drug related offenses, our San Diego drug possession attorneys may be able to convince the prosecution/judge to agree to treatment instead of incarceration.

By choosing Harrison Patterson & O’Connor to assist you in your misdemeanor case, whether you need a San Diego drug possession lawyer, San Diego domestic violence lawyer, San Diego DUI defense lawyer or other type of criminal defense lawyer, you will receive unmatched personal attention from the experienced San Diego criminal defense attorneys who work tirelessly to protect your reputation and your freedom. Contact us today to discuss your case.