Reduce Felony Charges to Misdemeanors in Los Angeles | What You Need to Know
How to Reduce Felony Charges to Misdemeanors in Los Angeles
Facing felony charges in Los Angeles can feel like your entire future is on the line — and in many ways, it is. A felony conviction can affect your freedom, career, housing, civil rights, and reputation for years to come. But there may be a path forward.
In California, certain felony charges can be reduced to misdemeanors — either during sentencing or after successful completion of probation — through a process outlined in Penal Code § 17(b). This legal strategy, known as a felony reduction, can dramatically reshape the impact of your case.
With the help of an experienced Los Angeles criminal attorney, you may be able to lower the charge, limit penalties, restore key rights, and rebuild your future.
This guide explains how felony reduction works, who qualifies, what the court looks for, and how our firm can help you take that next step.
What Does It Mean to Reduce a Felony to a Misdemeanor in California?
Reducing a felony to a misdemeanor means the court formally changes the classification of your conviction. What began as a felony — the most serious type of criminal offense — becomes a misdemeanor on your criminal record. This shift can drastically improve your legal, personal, and professional standing.
California law allows this reduction in cases involving “wobbler” offenses — crimes that can be charged either as misdemeanors or felonies depending on how they’re filed and prosecuted. The court can approve a reduction at the time of sentencing, or after probation is completed successfully.
A felony reduction under PC 17(b) can lead to:
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Shorter or no jail time
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Reduced fines and probation requirements
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Restoration of civil rights, including voting and firearm ownership (in some cases)
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Improved job, housing, and licensing opportunities
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Less social stigma associated with your record
Felony reductions aren’t automatic. You need a strong legal argument, the right evidence, and skilled advocacy to make it happen. A seasoned Los Angeles criminal attorney can help you prepare, present, and win that motion.
Who Qualifies for Felony Reduction in California?
Not every felony can be reduced, but if your offense is considered a “wobbler” — a charge that can be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony — you may be eligible.
Under Penal Code 17(b), courts have the discretion to reduce wobblers based on your record, the circumstances of the case, and your conduct since conviction. A successful petition doesn’t just depend on the law — it depends on how well your case is presented.
You may qualify for felony reduction if:
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Your charge is a wobbler under California law
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You’ve successfully completed probation (or are eligible for early termination)
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You have no serious prior convictions or recent violations
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You’ve demonstrated rehabilitation and good conduct since the offense
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There are mitigating factors in your case (e.g., no intent to harm, minor involvement)
How the Court Decides on a Felony Reduction Motion
Reducing a felony to a misdemeanor isn’t automatic — it requires a formal request, strong legal reasoning, and persuasive advocacy. The court reviews not only whether you’re eligible under the law, but also whether reducing your charge serves the interest of justice.
Here’s how the process typically works when filing a Penal Code 17(b) motion:
Filing the Motion
Your attorney will prepare and file a motion with the court that originally handled your case. This motion must clearly explain why your felony should be reduced, supported by legal arguments, facts about your case, and any relevant documentation (such as probation records or evidence of rehabilitation).
Petition Review
Once submitted, the judge reviews the motion to determine whether your offense qualifies as a wobbler. They’ll also assess your criminal history, probation performance, and any other factors that support or weigh against a reduction.
Court Hearing
If the motion moves forward, the court will schedule a hearing. During this hearing, your criminal attorney will present arguments on your behalf. The District Attorney may contest the motion, so it’s essential that your case is thoroughly prepared and effectively presented.
The Judge’s Decision
After reviewing the motion and hearing both sides, the judge will decide whether to grant the reduction. If approved, your felony conviction will be officially reclassified as a misdemeanor, and this change will be reflected in your criminal record.
Felony Charges That Can Be Reduced in California
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Grand Theft – Often eligible if the value is close to $950 or the defendant has no priors.
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Drug Possession – Especially when the charge is for personal use.
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Second-Degree Burglary – If no violence or residential break-in occurred.
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Aggravated Assault – May be reduced when injuries are minimal or circumstances are unclear.
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DUI with Injury – Can sometimes be reduced, especially for first-time offenders or minor injuries.
Unsure if your felony is a wobbler? Let a Los Angeles criminal attorney assess your case and walk you through your options.
Step-by-Step: How We Help Reduce Your Felony
Here’s how we guide you through the process from start to finish:
Case Review
We begin with a thorough review of your conviction, sentencing history, probation record, and the original circumstances of the offense. This allows us to confirm whether your felony is a wobbler and qualifies for reduction under the law.
Petition Preparation
Once we confirm eligibility, our legal team prepares and files a motion to reduce the charge. This includes detailed legal arguments, citations to applicable case law, and a clear explanation of why the court should grant your Penal Code 17(b) motion.
Supporting Evidence
We collect and organize compelling evidence to support your petition. This may include letters of recommendation, proof of rehabilitation, community service, counseling records, employment history, or anything else that shows your growth and readiness for a second chance.
Court Hearing
We represent you at the scheduled court hearing, where your Los Angeles criminal attorney will argue the motion before the judge. We present your case clearly, respond to any objections from the prosecution, and advocate for a reduction based on both legal merit and personal progress.
Final Judgment
If the motion is granted, the court will issue an order officially reclassifying your felony as a misdemeanor. We then guide you through next steps — such as correcting your criminal record and determining whether you’re eligible for expungement or other post-conviction relief.
Benefits of Reducing a Felony to a Misdemeanor
This legal change can unlock doors that a felony may have closed:
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Shorter Sentences & Lower Fines – Reduces the impact on your time, finances, and freedom.
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Better Employment Prospects – Many employers screen out felony records, but not misdemeanors.
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Restored Rights – Including voting, jury service, and in some cases, gun rights.
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Improved Social Perception – A misdemeanor doesn’t carry the same stigma as a felony.
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Access to Housing & Education – More opportunities for stable housing and academic advancement.
FAQ: Felony Reduction in Los Angeles
Can I reduce a felony even if I’ve already served my sentence?
Yes — as long as the charge is a wobbler and you meet the criteria, you can file a motion even after your sentence has been completed.
What is a “wobbler” offense?
A wobbler is a crime that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances. These are the only types of felonies eligible for reduction under Penal Code 17(b).
Can reducing my felony help me with expungement?
Yes. Once a felony is reduced to a misdemeanor, you may be eligible for expungement under California law, further improving your record.
How long does the reduction process take?
Timelines vary by court, but most cases are resolved within 30–90 days of filing the petition.
Will this erase the felony from my record?
It reclassifies the conviction, but does not delete it. However, it can greatly reduce the negative impact — and may be followed by expungement for additional relief.
Talk to a Los Angeles Criminal Attorney About Reducing Your Felony
Reducing a felony conviction to a misdemeanor isn’t just a legal formality — it’s a strategic step that can restore your rights, improve your record, and open new opportunities. But it takes more than paperwork. It takes preparation, timing, and experienced legal guidance.
Our firm has spent over two decades helping clients throughout Los Angeles County reduce their felony charges under Penal Code 17(b). Whether you’re looking to clean up your record or avoid the long-term consequences of a pending charge, we’ll help you understand your options and take the right legal steps.
As a trusted Los Angeles criminal attorney, Attorney Hashemi brings a deep understanding of local court procedures and knows how to present persuasive motions that get results.
If you’re ready to move forward, we’re ready to help.
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