Driving without a license is not a felony

Driving without a license is not a felony

Question:  I was charged with a VC 12500 driving without a license in Los Angeles, CA (metropolitan court).  Is this a felony?  Can I avoid prison?  The cop that pulled me over said I had to go to court and it was not like a regular traffic ticket.  I am living here temporarily and it is causing me much stress.
Answer: No in Los Angeles, CA a VC 12500 charge for driving without a license is not a felony, and thus even if convicted, you would not go to prison (which is distinguished from county jail). A VC 12500 can be filed as a misdemeanor though and by statute a penalty can include county jail time, but even in worse case scenario, that’s not as bad as a felony or prison.
Call me to discuss further. I can be reached at 818-336-1384.  I have been successful of getting VC 12500 charges reduced to infractions, and often completely dismissed.  Even in situations where people have had prior misdemeanor convictions for VC 12500.   Further, if I am retained to handle your case, I can appear at court without you needing to be there so you don’t have to miss work or school.
In the meantime, there is more information about driving without a license charge here:  VC 12500 driving without a valid California drivers license.
Phil Hache,
Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney
www.philhachelaw.com
Handling DUI and Criminal matters throughout Courts in Southern California including Van Nuys, CA, San Fernando, CA, Burbank, CA Glendale, CA Pasadena, CA Metropolitan Court, Bellflower, CA, Alhambra, CA,  Compton, CA, Santa Clarita, CA, Airport Court, Chatsworth, CA Inglewood, CA, Los Angeles, CA and other Courts