Felonies are the most serious criminal offenses and can result in stiff penalties. Example California Felony Crimes include:

• Certain Drug Charges;
• Sex Crimes;
• Murder & Violence Cases;
• White Collar Fraud & Embezzlement;
• Certain Firearm Convictions;

There are also crimes termed “wobblers” because they can move back and forth between the felony and misdemeanor categories. A somewhat notorious example of these crimes involves the theft of food or other items, usually by people with prior theft crimes. They are charged with a “wobbler” crime as a felony and that results in a “third strike” (and life sentence).

If you are being charged with a felony even for a minor infraction, you should take it very seriously and obtain professional legal advice as soon as possible. If you are or could be facing felony charges you should contact our Attorneys now to discuss your case and begin your legal defense.

Consequences of a Felony Conviction

The consequences for a felony conviction will vary but can be quite severe. Many felonies require a minimum multiple year State prison sentence if convicted. Non-violent and first time offenders may receive probation and spend a short time, or no time, in the county jail so long as they comply with certain conditions. For other crimes that can be misdemeanors or felonies, “wobblers”, there is more discretion permitted in sentencing. Additional years can be added to a felony sentence for specific aggravating circumstances (such as a crime involving a firearm) and for repeat offenses. Those with prior felonies may also be subject to the “three strikes” law. Contact our offices today to discuss your case and we can explain the range of penalties you may face and begin building your legal defense.

There are a number of additional consequences of felony convictions that should not be overlooked. For example, a felony conviction could make otherwise legal activities a crime (i.e. buying a gun). Finding employment or receiving certain state licenses (such as a state real estate sales license) may also be more difficult. Contact our offices today if you are facing a felony charge. An experienced California criminal defense lawyer can help to represent your interests and reach the best possible outcome for your situation.

Bail and Preliminary Hearings
Soon after arrest, from hours to a few days, there will be a bail hearing where the amount is determined. This amount is usually based upon the severity of the offense, the chance of harm to others if released, and the individual’s flight risk. Bail for felonies can range from hundreds to millions of dollars and can be challenged as excessively high by the person charged and/or their attorney. If you know someone who is in jail and cannot afford bail, contact our attorney’s to discuss the possibility of getting it lowered.

After being arrested a preliminary hearing will be required where the evidence against the accused is presented. If the judge believes the evidence is sufficient to go to trial the person will be formally charged. Preliminary hearings almost always end up with an indictment, or formal charge. However, it is important to have an attorney there because this is the first time the evidence against the accused is revealed. Contact our attorneys today to make sure you are represented at any preliminary hearing.

Making Deals and Going to Trial
Most criminal charges in California are settled in a plea bargain (deal) before ever going to trial. Depending on the history of the defendant, the facts of the case, and the nature of the crime a plea bargain may result in a desirable outcome. A deal agreed to with the prosecutor and approved by the judge will be final. Deals vary and can result in pleading guilty to lesser felony charges, or even misdemeanors in some cases. Any plea bargain offered should be reviewed by an experienced attorney. This is especially true in cases which a person is going to plead guilty to a felony (and possibly subject themselves to the “three strikes” law in the future). If you are being charged with a felony you should seek professional legal advice on proposing or accepting a deal. Contact us today for a consultation on your case.

If a plea bargain cannot be reached, the case will go to trial. The upside to a trial is the possibility of an acquittal or convictions on only the minor charges. However, very few criminal trials in California result in an acquittal, with nearly all resulting in guilty verdicts on at least some charges. Felony criminal trials are often very complicated and the failure to prepare an adequate legal defense could result in additional prison time and other penalties. Failure to bring up certain objections or introduce helpful evidence at trial can also hurt the chances of a successful appeal. Our experienced trial attorney’s can prepare your defense, help protect your constitutional rights, and build an adequate trial record that can be used to appeal an adverse decision.

If you have been arrested or charged with a felony in California we strongly urge you to contact our experienced criminal defense attorneys today! We can put our resources to work for you and help to negotiate or litigate the best outcome for your situation. Contact us online or call: 1-800-221-7798