Reduction of Felony to Misdemeanor
When a judge grants probation to a person who has pled to or been found guilty of a felony criminal offense that can be charged either as a felony or a misdemeanor without imposing sentence, the court may later declare the felony to be a misdemeanor pursuant to Penal Code section 17(b). Penal Code Section 17(b) provides for reduction of a felony to a misdemeanor. In deciding whether to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor, the judge gives consideration to the nature of the felony and the circumstances of the offense. The judge also gives consideration to the offender as well as the public interest in the offense. If you are arrested or charged wth a felony, contact Christine McGuire, The Santa Cruz Criminal Defense Attorney.