Misdemeanor Conviction over Invalid Registration

**porbob** · 05-18-2005, 01:05 PM

In january I was stopped for a headlight out as I was picking up a car that I had not driven or registered in 5 years. I put a sticker on the plate to show that it was current { sticker was from a car that I gave to my - son out of state}. The officer cited me for false registration..a misdemeanor. Should I get counsel to fight the misdemeanor...that is, how will a misdemeanor on my record effect me?

**aaron** · 05-18-2005, 06:29 PM

As the charge is a criminal offense, I would suggest consulting with a lawyer about your options. Particularly if you have a clean record, the prosecutor might be willing to offer you a good deal, such as pleading to a civil infraction instead of a misdemeanor.

**porbob** · 05-19-2005, 12:21 PM

Thanks for the reply...I suppose as a criminal offence, it won't show up on my driving record, thus effecting my insurance rates? Thanks again. Bob

**aaron** · 05-19-2005, 02:16 PM

It goes onto your criminal record. It doesn't appear to go onto your California driving record - here's a list of offenses carrying points from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

**porbob** · 05-19-2005, 06:54 PM

Thanks again Aaron. Would you know cares about misdemeanors on your record? For one does it affect your credit for buying a house?

Thanks, Bob

**aaron** · 05-19-2005, 07:09 PM

Most people who do not already have a criminal record prefer not to get one.

Unfortunately, as I don't practice in California, you will have to consult a California lawyer about any possible ramifications of a misdemeanor record in that state.

**porbob** · 05-19-2005, 08:02 PM

Thanks Arron..I"ll do that . At the arrainement, this morning the judge said that if I plead guilty, the fine would be $350. Guess I'll consult counsel here, but I'm afraid that he will be baised. Anyway, I go to court, to pay the fine or try to bargain with councel! Thanks, Bob