Infractions vs Misdemeanors: What's the Difference?

Criminal defense attorney Michael Becker explains the difference between infractions and misdemeanors in California law.

More info at https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/blog/vehicle-code/the-difference-between-an-infraction-and-a-misdemeanor-in-california/ or call (855) 999-7755 for a free consultation.

Many people confuse the legal concepts of infractions and misdemeanors. However an infraction is much different from a misdemeanor.

An infraction is much less serious than a misdemeanor, because an infraction is not technically a crime, while a misdemeanor is classified as a crime, and can lead to jail time if found guilty. Infractions can only by punished by fines, such as a parking ticket or a basic traffic ticket.

When charges are filed against you for a misdemeanor, you have the right to a jury trial and a public defender if you cannot afford your own attorney. These rights are granted by the US Constitution and cannot be infringed upon. However when you are accused of an infraction, you do not get these rights. You cannot challenge an infraction in front of a jury trial, and you have no right to a public defender.

Note that some infractions are known as "wobblettes". These are infractions that can also be charged as misdemeanors depending on the severity of the crime.

If you or a loved one is charged with a crime we invite you to contact us at Shouse Law Group. We can provide a free consultation in office or by phone. We have local offices in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, Long Beach, Orange County, Ventura, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, San Diego, Sacramento, Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose and throughout California.

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