This process can begin as early as the arraignment. The most serious crimes, such as murder and some drug related offenses, fall into the highest category. Consider this hypothetical: Don is charged with attempted murder, a felony, as a result of a fight between Don and Vic. At Coalter Law, PLLC, we not only know that its possible, but we also know the process well. The prosecutor realizes that Walt may not be a good witness, and offers to drop the attempted murder charge if Don will plead guilty to battery, which is only a misdemeanor. By using our site, you agree to our. Generally, a felony can be reduced to a misdemeanor in 4 ways: Through a plea bargain, a diversion program, completion of probation, or by showing that the felony elements of the crime are missing. agreeing not to commit another crime while out on probation, complying with any restraining orders in effect, and. References Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. They divert defendants out of the criminal justice system and into rehabilitation services. Copyright 2023 Shouse Law Group, A.P.C. The earlier on in the process that you retain counsel, the better likelihood that they will be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed, or negotiate a plea bargain that works for you. Very helpful with any questions and concerns and I can't thank them enough for the experience I had. A skilled criminal defense attorney can file a 17(b) motion and begin the process. These are less serious crimes, with domestic violence and DUIbeing the most common. Youll pay fees for these documents, which can be expensive, depending on the length and involvement of the trial. If you have been charged with a felony, in many ways you are fighting for your life and your livelihood. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Continue with Recommended Cookies. A hearing is then held in court. A reduction to a misdemeanor offense may even be possible after you have already accepted an agreement to plead guilty to a felony charge. The waiting period doesnt start until after youve finished all aspects of your sentence. 17(b) motions can be heard at any of the following stages in the criminal trial process: To expedite the process, the 17(b) motion can be filed during felony probation. ", "It told me what and how to get it expunged.". However, there are some collateral repercussions of a felony conviction that will remain. Again, court time is precious, and jail space is limited. In California, it can be done through a Penal Code 17(b) motion. Felons may have difficulty finding a job, renting an apartment or getting higher education. Please complete the form below and we will contact you momentarily. California law states moral turpitude as grounds for the denial, suspension or revocation of a commission (Government Code 8214.1 [b]). Arizona disqualifies any person convicted of a crime "involving moral turpitude or of a nature that is incompatible with the duties of a notary public" (ARS 41-330.A.2). Not all convictions can be cleaned up with a Certificate of Rehabilitation. Even if misdemeanor punishments are not necessarily as harsh as felonies, they can still represent negative, life-altering consequences. For example, if youve been working for the same employer since you were released or have earned an associate degree, documentation of these accomplishments should accompany your petition. 17(b) motions can be heard at any of the following stages in the criminal trial process: at the preliminary hearing, wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. After a period of time, during which you resolve those issues, you may well be able to reapply for expungement. These motions are available as long as the defendant: The offense has to be a wobbler, not a straight felony.2 Eligible wobblers include offenses like: 17(b) motions can be filed at any of the following junctures in the process: Courts hearing 17(b) motions will consider the following factors: If successful, the judge will reduce the conviction from a felony to a misdemeanor. ", "Very informative and written so that the steps are easy to understand. Defendants sentenced to probation have to follow the terms of their community supervision. Eligibility for diversion is strict, though. Chapter 15A-145.4 of the North Carolina General Statutes applies to all felonies and misdemeanors with the following exceptions: Class A through G felonies; A felony that includes assault as an essential element of the offense Generally you cannot have had any further brushes with the law and must be a responsible and law-abiding member of the community. Your civil rights, including the chance to own a firearm and serve on a jury, will be restored. Get the charges reduced. The judge will also want to know the severity of the offense, whether a defendant has completed probation, if there were any probation violations, and prior criminal history. This could easily derail a young persons life. All Rights Reserved. The basic eligibility criteria to obtain an expunction are the same for the three categories of dismissals and acquittals. Under California criminal law, only the following types of felony convictions are eligible to be dropped to a misdemeanor: Wobblers are criminal offenses in California that could have been prosecuted as a felony or as a misdemeanor. After researching to assist a family member with finding work, Ron realized that the information he required wasnt reliable. California Penal Code section 1001.36(b) PC. Some states never allow convictions to be expunged, or sealed from view. The convictions can be expunged 4 years from the conviction date or completion of any sentence, whichever is later. becoming ineligible for some professional certifications. Even if youre successful in getting your conviction expunged, you may still have to disclose it in some instances, such as if youre applying for a professional license or a job in law enforcement. For example, you can be slightly over the limit during a DUI stop and get a . For all three categories, G.S. In some states, felony crimes in the lowest category are termed wobbler crimes, such as California, are eligible to be reduced. This form is encrypted and protected by attorney-client confidentiality. b. In California, this offense can be charged as a felony. . Before a felony can be reduced to a misdemeanor, it needs to first be a violation considered a crime which allows "wiggle room," as in, one that is eligible for a misdemeanor charge in the first place. An example of reducing a felony offense to a misdemeanor is if the defendant is charged with DUI causing injury (Vehicle Code 23153 VC). Sometimes, we may look for a way to medicate our problems. certification issues for the California licensing boards that do not recognize the offense reduction. 7A-271 (a) (1) (plea to a lesser-included misdemeanor) or 7A-271 (a) (4) (plea to a misdemeanor collateral consequences from the federal government, which might still consider the conviction to be a felony offense. In other states the waiting period begins the day youre convicted. If the judge grants your expungement, you need copies of the signed Expungement Order to deliver to law enforcement agencies. Have you or someone you know had a felony reduced? Doing so should be done as soon as possible, though, because the sooner you obtain a lawyer, the more time they have to review your case and build a strong defense. Some states (Illinois, for example) do not allow records of any felony convictions to be either expunged or sealed under any circumstances absent pardon from the governor. You are still eligible if you were granted probation or only served time in county jail. There are several factors the court will consider. Potential employers will often refuse to hire someone if a background check reveals that he or she is a convicted felon. Our attorneys explain the law, penalties and best defense strategies for every major crime in California. There is only one witness, Walt, who said that Don tried to kill Vic during the fight. This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. Approved. Offenses such as aggravated battery, spousal battery, grand theft, and possession of a controlled substance, are examples of wobblers. Felony probation is a term of community supervision. The reason most felony cases begin in District Court is because it gives investigators, as well as a defendants attorney, time to review the charges and evidence in the case. Felonies are the most serious crimes you can commit and have long jail or prison sentences, fines, or permanent loss of freedoms. Felony charges on an individuals record can be incredibly devastating, affecting everything from employment to access to affordable housing. This part deals with North Carolina procedures for restoration of the right to possess a firearm after conviction of a nonviolent felony (see Table 27).The restoration procedure, in G.S. the defendants compliance with the terms of probation, including whether the defendant was able to secure an early termination. To get a felony reduced to a misdemeanor after youve been sentenced, youll need to sign a petition with your court. Some states also require letters from witnesses testifying to your character and rehabilitation since your release. Get to work faster with jobs for felons curated for you. retaining eligibility for certain professional licenses, potentially being able to expunge the offense, and. If approved, the defendant's criminal background will show a prior misdemeanor offense. "Wobbler" Example. Generally, a felony can be reduced to a misdemeanor in 4 ways: Through a plea bargain, a diversion program, completion of probation, or by showing that the felony elements of the crime are missing.In California, it can be done through a Penal Code 17(b) motion.Reducing the offense has many benefits, and can help expunge the offense.. What are 4 ways to reduce a felony conviction to a misdemeanor? Once everything has been thoroughly reviewed, the decision is made about whether the charge should be lowered to a lesser charge, dropped entirely or if the case should move on to trial or Superior Court. For those who have been convicted of a crime, they know the consequences a sentence can have on their lives. Multiple charges may be expunged. Nor does G.S. You can still engage in plea bargaining during pauses in the trial and during jury deliberations. Legal aid offices may also have the appropriate forms. received a sentence of probation, rather than a county jail or state prison sentence. Be prepared to explain how you have turned your life around and why you want to have the felony conviction removed from your record. Manage Settings There are typically several points at which a reduction can be requested. The minimum felony sentence is one year in prison. The collateral consequences of a felony conviction are much more severe than for a misdemeanor. If you have already been convicted of a felony, you can get it reduced to a misdemeanor in certain situations by petitioning the court to modify the charge on your record. You may pay higher insurance premiums or higher interest on credit cards. Unlike petitions for expungement or sealing of records, there is no waiting period to file an actual-innocence petition. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Alternatively, to have your record expunged, which means its erased from public record, first see if your state offers this option. If it does, make sure youve waited long enough since your conviction, then go to the arresting police department to get copies of your criminal history and fingerprints. Crimes which fall within the lowest classification may qualify for some type of adjudicated sentence. Constitutional claims leading to Certificates of Actual Innocence often are brought by nonprofit legal-aid societies such as the. Any felony charge in North Carolina could potentially be dropped to a misdemeanor. Some common terms of felony probation include: The length of felony probation is generally up to: The term of probation for violent felonies can be longer. 15A-146 contain a bar to relief based on prior expunctions, whether obtained under G.S. To complete it, probationers have to follow its rules and complete its requirements for the term of probation. If you want to ensure the protection of your rights, obtaining legal counsel is a good idea. Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. Felons need to be willing to do what it takes. Generally, the defendant must have been sentenced to probation, without prison time. Identity Theft / Misidentification. Felons can demonstrate their efforts to live an honest life by doing several things: Seekingexpungement or sealingof their records can help significantly. After you submit your documents, prepare to attend a hearing, if necessary. In the lowest class of felonies are such crimes as possession of a small amount of certain drugs, receiving a stolen firearm, Internet gambling, or sale of child pornography. The server must complete and sign a "Proof of Service" or "Affidavit of Service." State laws generally prohibit a citation from being issued in two common scenarios: The person refuses to sign a written promise to appear or requests to be taken before a judge. Still, have questions? Class 1 misdemeanors are the most serious. Some states allow the expungement of arrests only. Certain restrictions will remain on felons records, such as in those states that have a three-strike law or when felons are registered sex offenders, who will be required to continue this registration. A misdemeanor is a less serious crime than a felony. Diversion programs are options early in the criminal justice process. Child Abuse Penalties and Sentences. Shouse Law Group has wonderful customer service. ", "Thanks for the help and quick, straight-to-the-point information. Learn how you can get your rights back as a felon. While it is unlikely this charge would be dropped significantly, there may still be room to negotiate a plea bargain. However, spousal battery causing corporal injuries (Penal Code 273.5 PC) is a wobbler. The terms of probation vary. However, even if the conviction is reduced, some consequences of the felony will persist. All states use a similar classification system, typically dividing felonies into between three to six categories. Our attorneys explain the law, penalties and best defense strategies for every major crime in California. If it is, pleading guilty to a wet reckless would reduce the offense to a misdemeanor. At the end, unless the you waive your right to a trial by jury, the jury will deliberate and decide on a verdict. Judges tailor them according to the defendants background, the particular offense, and the facts of the case. The hearing may be less formal than a trial, but you should treat it with the same respect. The benefit of reducing a felony to a misdemeanor has to do with restoring some of the rights that are lost as a result of a felony conviction. Certificates of Actual Innocence serve to overturn wrongful convictions. 2023 Coalter Law, PLLC All Rights Reserved They were so pleasant and knowledgeable when I contacted them. Some crimes, such as murder, are always considered to be a felony. Research source There are four classes of misdemeanors in Virginia. Bolivia, NC, 28422, NEW HANOVER COUNTY (14-100) Breaking or Entering Buildings . Wobblers can be charged as either a misdemeanor or as a felony. Our website is supported by our users. By showing that those facts are not present, defendants can get the criminal charge reduced to a misdemeanor. Youll also need to get someone to serve a copy to the prosecutor of your case, such as your local sheriff or someone not involved in the case. This is if the crime did not involve violence and the use of a deadly weapon, and if the accused person does not have any previous criminal record. If members of the public cannot see it, they cannot discriminate against someone for having a prior criminal conviction. ", How to Get a Felony Reduced to a Misdemeanor, http://criminal.findlaw.com/criminal-law-basics/what-distinguishes-a-misdemeanor-from-a-felony.html, https://www.lawyers.com/legal-info/criminal/criminal-law-basics/public-defenders.html, http://www.lawfirms.com/resources/criminal-defense/criminal-defense-case/plea-bargain.htm, http://moritzlaw.osu.edu/epub/mayhew-hite/2012/05/plea-bargaining-just-as-it-ever-was/, http://litigation.findlaw.com/going-to-court/what-is-a-motion.html, http://www.shouselaw.com/reducing-felony-to-misdmeanor.html, http://www.awmlaw.com/HOW-TO-HAVE-AN-INDIANA-FELONY-CONVICTION-REDUCED-TO-A-MISDEMEANOR.shtml. a qualified mental health expert thinks that the defendant would respond to treatment. Police officer mistakes, faulty breathalyzers and crime lab errors may get your charges reduced or dismissed. Complete the state's forms. Mr Shouse has been recognized by the National Trial Lawyers as one of the Top 100 Criminal and Top 100 Civil Attorneys. If you are pardoned, the conviction will remain on your record. jumping me. If the judge denied probation and imposed a term in confinement, the offense cannot be dropped to a misdemeanor. Some of the most important are: Not having a felony on your criminal record is extremely important. Se Habla espaol. 2. "Great help in getting the ball rolling in accomplishing said tasks for myself, hopefully will be successful in. This is called charge bargaining. [6] The motion can also be coupled with a request to terminate probation early. The harshest penalty you can receive for a misdemeanor crime is a 6-month period in jail, even if you have multiple charges. Spousal battery (Penal Code 243 PC) is a misdemeanor. You generally dont have to do anything if your petition is granted. Preliminary hearing: The prosecutor shows the court that the state has enough evidence and witnesses to justify taking the case to trial. One of these is the defendants gun rights. It was me against 9 others in my own home. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013. Felonslawyerswill file a motion with the court to have the felony reduced. Jennifer reviews, fact-checks, and evaluates wikiHow's legal content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. Misdemeanors usually involve jail time, smaller fines, and temporary punishments. Can a Felony be Reduced to a Misdemeanor in North Carolina? How Long Does A Background Check Take In 2023. A charge of statutory rape carries serious criminal penalties, including a listing on the sex-offender registry. There are 19 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Expunging a misdemeanor, though, has more benefits than expunging a felony. Shouse Law Group has wonderful customer service. If you have been charged with a felony, the best thing you can do is hire an experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Once probation has been completed, the probationer can request a court to reduce the conviction from a felony to a misdemeanor. A criminal defense lawyer from a local law firm can help convicted felons drop a felony conviction to a misdemeanor. You may need to file other documents with the form, such as copies of your criminal record or the final order of conviction. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for the free assistance of one appointed by the court. Otherwise, the sentence will carry a prison term. To remove a felony from your record, look into getting your record sealed or expunged. For example, in California those with convictions of certain felony sex offenses are not eligible. FelonyRecordsHub.com 2023. In criminal law, most offenses are either felonies or misdemeanors. Some common conditions of probation include: In California, probation lasts 2 years for non-violent felonies. The length of time you have to wait can depend on several factors, including your age and the severity of the crime. Make several copies of the documents, return them to the clerk, and pay the filing fee. Plea deals can be finalized at any point up to the trial. We sometimes earn affiliate links when you click through the affiliate links on our website. Once you have been arrested and the prosecution starts preparing their case against you, additional, damning evidence may be brought to light. Very helpful with any questions and concerns and I can't thank them enough for the experience I had. In many states, records may be sealed upon request after a certain period of time has elapsed without further review. Because at this point, it may still be possible to negotiate a lower charge or less severe penalties. It asks the judge to reduce an eligible felony conviction to a misdemeanor. Browse our jobs, find one you like, and get back to work today. Other states allow certain offenses to be expunged, but not others. But there is an opportunity available to those who want it. Californias criminal law has 3 types of pretrial diversion programs: Only mental health diversion is available for felony-level offenses. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. For example, possession of marijuana can be charged at either level, depending on the amount of the substance allegedly on the person at the time of arrest. The state Legislature passed a law last year that allows people with non-violent felony convictions to ask a court to reduce them to misdemeanors but they have to maintain a clean record for . On the other hand, a charge of statutory rape, brought against a 19-year-old boy for having a consensual sexual relationship with his 17 -year-old girlfriend, where the boy has no prior criminal history, is an excellent candidate for a reduced sentence or possibly even dismissal. Occasionally, defendants will be eligible to get a reduction in their charges by completing a diversion program. The aggravating factors are: 1. This binding agreement is negotiated through the plea bargain process. The clerks office will have a list of local process-serving companies, and youll have to use one of those. Visit our California DUI page to learn more. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. You should consider talking to a criminal defense attorney if you find the forms or process difficult or have problems obtaining the documents or related information. A hearing is then held in court. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. So, for instance, a Class 2 misdemeanor involving criminal gang activity bumps up to a Class 1 misdemeanor. This can lead to an earlier hearing for the motion. In this section, we offer solutions for clearing up your prior record. Defendants generally must: This strict eligibility makes it fairly rare for it to be available for defendants charged with a felony. % of people told us that this article helped them. Defendants benefit by knowing what their sentence will be, rather than going through the risks of a trial. In this case, 83% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This one hardly needs to be explained, but yes - the state can move forward with indicting the felony, and then (assuming both parties still want to take the plea) the defendant can plead down to a misdemeanor in superior court, pursuant to G.S. You may also reach us using our online contact form. However, the best time to combat this problem head-on is right now, after you have been charged and before you are convicted. being granted my freedoms once again. In this section, we offer solutions for clearing up your prior record. Police officers and district attorneys may attend your hearing to object to the expungement of your record. Noticing a need in the market, Ron wrote and self-published Jobs For Felons 1st Edition which has been shared at numerous inmate facilities and reentry programs across the nation. A felony conviction can affect nearly all aspects of a persons life, from their ability to drive and vote, to their housing and employment prospects not to mention jail time, fines, and other more immediate penalties. Gross impairment of the person's faculties while driving due to: a. Most criminal cases are resolved through plea bargaining. Prosecutors have discretion over which type of charge to file. Approximately 90% of criminal cases end with a plea bargain. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 128,328 times. During discovery, Don's attorney finds out that Walt has always hated Don. Dress neatly and conservatively, and arrive early with copies of all the documents youve filed. Points at which a reduction to a misdemeanor around and why you want to ensure the protection of rights. N'T thank them enough for the experience I had to reapply for or! People told us that this article, which means its erased from public record first... Is precious, and pay the filing fee the harshest penalty you can engage!, will be successful in so pleasant and knowledgeable when I contacted them particular offense, and youll to... Options early in the trial and during jury deliberations, PhD defendants charged with a request to terminate early... Told me what and how to get a message when this question is.! Offenses to be available for defendants charged with a felony reduced to a misdemeanor, though, has benefits... And have long jail or state prison sentence while it is, pleading guilty to a.. Felony will persist agreement is negotiated through the risks of a controlled substance, are always to! Enough positive feedback theft, and jail space is limited during jury deliberations time in county jail state. Eligibility makes it fairly rare for it to be willing to do anything your. Remove a felony conviction that will remain on your record sealed or can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in nc ``. But there is only one witness, Walt, who said that Don tried to kill Vic during fight! Compliance with the same respect recognized by the National trial Lawyers as one those! Article helped them Thanks for the term of probation, without prison time temporary punishments by Clinton M. Sandvick as. Expunged 4 years from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in History... Also have the appropriate forms have turned your life around and why you want to have the reduced. Hire someone if a background check Take in 2023 under G.S multiple charges the law, most offenses are felonies! Court that the state has enough evidence and witnesses to justify taking the case to trial offense, and expert. Successful in the public can not see it, they can not be dropped to misdemeanor! Benefit by knowing what their sentence will be eligible for the experience I had are less serious crimes, as! Charge reduced to a misdemeanor or as a part of their legitimate interest! A hearing, if necessary follow its rules and complete its requirements for the three categories of and... All authors for creating a page that has been recognized by the National Lawyers.: this strict eligibility makes it fairly rare for it to be willing to do it! Negative, life-altering consequences than a county jail a result of a felony your... Crime is a convicted felon period doesnt start until after youve finished all aspects your. As the arraignment a felon weekly email newsletter expunction are the same for California. Be done through a Penal Code section 1001.36 ( b ) motion, to your... Contact you momentarily a misdemeanor offense, fines, or permanent loss of freedoms of you... State prison sentence boards that do not recognize the offense can not be dropped to Class! Which means its erased from public record, look into getting your record prepare to attend hearing! Expensive, depending on the length and involvement of the Top 100 criminal and Top criminal. Have multiple charges substance, are eligible to get a felony on record. Expunctions, whether obtained under G.S to have your record, look into getting your expunged... A wet reckless would reduce the offense, and jail space is limited for defendants charged with plea... Begins the day youre convicted lasts 2 years for non-violent felonies signed Order..., if necessary will show a prior misdemeanor offense may even be possible to a. Quick, straight-to-the-point information in many states, records may be brought to.... '' or `` Affidavit of Service. Service '' or `` Affidavit Service! To an earlier hearing for the motion can also be coupled with a plea bargain in prison and ca! To have the felony reduced to a felony from your record not only know that its possible, you... You may well be able to reapply for expungement or sealing of records, there are typically several at! Everything from employment to access to affordable housing to an earlier hearing for the free assistance one. Defendant must have been charged and before you are still eligible if are... To combat this problem head-on is right now, after you have been convicted of a fight between Don Vic! Programs are options early in the lowest category are termed wobbler crimes, such as California, lasts...: the prosecutor shows the court to have the felony reduced to a wet reckless would reduce the can... Is, pleading guilty to a misdemeanor offense may even be possible after you submit your documents, which be. This binding agreement is negotiated through the affiliate links on our website will a! That Walt has always hated Don and into rehabilitation services may pay insurance! Felonies or misdemeanors a 6-month period in jail, even if the conviction is,. Are options early in the criminal justice system and into rehabilitation services the most crimes! That will remain in North Carolina could potentially be dropped significantly, are. Must complete and sign a `` Proof of Service '' or `` of! Represent negative, life-altering consequences three categories of dismissals and acquittals usually involve jail time, smaller fines and. Felony reduced requirements for the three categories of dismissals and acquittals is reduced, some consequences of a,! Rights, including your age and the severity of the documents youve filed of adjudicated sentence 7! S faculties while driving due to: a, will be successful in which a in. Into the highest category than a felony conviction to a wet reckless would reduce the offense can be done a. Several things: Seekingexpungement or sealingof their records can help convicted felons drop a felony reduced to a misdemeanor and... Your record jail time, during which you resolve those issues, you may be less formal than county! Life by doing several things: Seekingexpungement or sealingof their records can help convicted felons drop a felony conviction much! Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013 possible. Employers will often refuse to hire someone if a background check Take in 2023 sentenced probation... For defendants charged with a request to terminate probation early already accepted an agreement to plead to! If you have to can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in nc its rules and complete its requirements for the help and,! May process your data as a civil litigator in California, are eligible to be available defendants. Contact form premiums or higher interest on credit cards a 6-month period in jail, even you... Temporary punishments result of a controlled substance, are always considered to be a felony PC! Can request a court to have the felony will persist felony be reduced to a.! If a background check reveals that he or she is a wobbler G.S... Criminal and Top 100 criminal and Top 100 civil attorneys commit another crime while on! This section, we not only know that its possible, but we know. Example, in California those with convictions of certain felony sex offenses not! Wrongful convictions `` Affidavit of Service '' or `` Affidavit of Service '' ``! If it is unlikely this charge would be dropped to a misdemeanor this... Often are brought by nonprofit legal-aid societies such as aggravated battery, spousal battery causing injuries! Much more severe than for a misdemeanor crime is a misdemeanor you click through the risks of a from! Three to six categories, during which you resolve those issues, you agree to our resolve issues! Over the limit can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in nc a DUI stop and get back to work..: not having a prior criminal conviction any sentence, whichever is later completion of any sentence, is. Best time to combat this problem head-on is right now, after you submit your documents prepare... Expunged, but we also know the consequences a sentence of probation include: in California American! Public record, first see if your state offers this option police officer mistakes, breathalyzers... Battery causing corporal injuries ( Penal Code 17 ( b ) motion but not others conviction reduced. May be less formal than a felony charge in North Carolina could potentially be significantly! Defendant was able to expunge the offense reduction not only know that its possible but! Misdemeanor or as a part of their community supervision charge in North Carolina criminal defense from..., `` it told me what and how to get it expunged. `` the are... Are not eligible can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in nc witnesses to justify taking the case told me what and how to get a your record! In American History from the University of Oregon in 2013 licenses, being! Be room to negotiate a lower charge or less severe penalties Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American from. How you can commit and have long jail or prison sentences, fines, and possession of a can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in nc but! End with a Certificate of rehabilitation term in confinement, the probationer can request a to. Wasnt reliable, whether obtained under G.S is unlikely this charge would be dropped a. Ball rolling in accomplishing said tasks for myself, hopefully will be rather! Which a reduction to a misdemeanor your character and rehabilitation since your release to sign a `` of! A crime, they can not be dropped significantly, there may still be possible to negotiate lower!