Are You Facing Felony Charges?

Facing felony charges can be overwhelming. Felonies are serious criminal offenses that come with harsh penalties, including long prison sentences, fines, and lasting consequences for your future. It’s crucial to take these charges seriously and seek experienced legal help right away.

What are Felony Charges? 

Felony charges are more serious than misdemeanors. They can include violent crimes like murder, assault, or sexual offenses, along with non-violent crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, or white-collar crimes. Each state has its own laws for classifying felonies, but all felonies result in serious legal outcomes that affect your life beyond the courtroom.

Common Types of Felonies? 

Some of the most common felony charges include:

• Murder and manslaughter
• Rape and sexual assault
• Molestation or sexual misconduct iwth a minor
• Robbery and burglary
• Kidnapping and abduction
• Drug trafficking or distribution
• Aggravated assault
• White collar crimes such as fraud, forgery, or embezzlement
• Felony DUI (driving under the influence) resulting in injury or death.

Felony charge arrest

What is the Legal Process for Felony Charges?

The legal process for felony charges can vary depending on the specific state and jurisdiction. However, in general, it typically follows a similar path:

1. Arrest: If suspected of a felony, a person may be arrested by law enforcement.
2. Initial appearance: After arrest, the individual appears before a judge, hears charges and penalties, and enters a plea.
3. Preliminary hearing/grand jury: A hearing or grand jury decides if there’s enough evidence for trial.
4. Arraignment: Formal charges are presented, and the individual can enter a plea.
5. Trial: Evidence and arguments are presented to determine guilt or innocence.
6. Sentencing: If guilty, the judge sentences based on state laws.
7. Appeals: The convicted can appeal if trial errors are believed.
8. Post-conviction relief: Available for those who feel wrongfully convicted or sentenced.
9. Probation/parole: The individual may serve probation or parole after prison.
10. Expungement: Some states allow felony records to be expunged after a period without further criminal activity.

Legal Process for Felony Charges

The legal process for felonies usually follows these steps:

1. Arrest: Law enforcement takes you into custody.
2. Initial Appearance: Charges and penalties are explained; you enter a plea.
3. Preliminary Hearing/Grand Jury: This determines if there’s enough evidence for trial.
4. Arraignment: Formal charges are presented, and you enter a plea.
5. Trial: Evidence is presented before a judge or jury to determine guilt.
6. Sentencing: If convicted, the judge issues a sentence based on state law.
7. Appeals: You can challenge trial errors through an appeal.
8. Post-Conviction Relief: Options might be available for those who feel they were wrongfully convicted.
9. Probation/Parole: Convicted individuals may serve supervised probation or parole.
10. Expungement: In some cases, felony records can be sealed or expunged after a period without further offenses.

Understanding Probation and Probation Violations

Many people convicted of a felony receive supervised probation instead of, or after, serving time in prison. Probation lets you stay in the community under certain conditions.

However, probation can be revoked if rules are broken.

Common violations include:

• Not contacting your probation officer
• Moving or changing your address without telling the probation office
• Failing to check in regularly
• Being charged with a new crime or traveling out of state without permission

If probation is revoked, a court may extend your probation or require time in the Department of Corrections (DOC). It’s important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately if you’re accused of violating probation. Prompt legal help can help limit consequences and protect your rights.

• Penalties for Felony Charges Felony convictions bring serious consequences beyond the courtroom:
• Prison time: Felonies can result in sentences of a year or more. – Fines: These can range from thousands to millions of dollars.
• Probation: Courts may impose supervised probation instead of incarceration.
• Loss of rights: Convictions can lead to losing voting rights, firearm possession, and eligibility for public office.
• Employment barriers: Felony records can make finding a job difficult.
• Social stigma: Convictions have a lasting social impact and can affect personal relationships.

Can Felonies Be Reduced or Expunged?

Reduction to misdemeanor: Some felony charges can be reduced through plea deals or diversion programs, often needing community service, counseling, or other requirements.

Expungement: Certain felony convictions may be expunged or sealed after a period without further criminal activity, depending on state laws. This can allow you to legally leave the conviction off job applications. Consult a criminal defense attorney to learn about your eligibility and options. Common Defenses Against Felony Charges Strong legal representation can help challenge felony charges.

Common defenses include:

• Lack of intent: Arguing that the accused did not have criminal intent.
• Mistaken identity: Claiming someone else committed the crime.
• Insanity: Arguing the defendant was unable to understand their actions at the time.
• Self-defense: Using force to protect oneself from harm.

Defense strategies vary based on the case specifics. We work hard to ensure a fair trial and help achieve the best outcome possible. If you’re facing felony charges or a probation violation, contact our office today for expert legal help.