Felony

In the state of California, a felony conviction often results in serious punishment, which could potentially change your life as you know it. At the very least, you may receive probation or minimal jail time; however if the charge is particularly serious or violent, you may be sentenced to state prison for anywhere from 16 months to life. At The Justice Firm, our Los Angeles felony lawyers are dedicated to obtaining the best possible outcome in your felony case. We realize the serious implications of a conviction, which includes not only severe criminal penalties but possible loss of employment, your professional or business license, your right to own firearms, and even deportation for those individuals who are not U.S. citizens.

Felony offenses are those considered the most serious in California; many are punishable by life in the state prison, or even death. There are basically two categories these offenses may be classified as, either a "straight" felony, or "wobbler" offense. Certain criminal offenses are always considered straight felonies. These include but are not limited to rape, murder, and possession for sale of a controlled substance.

Wobbler offenses are those which the prosecutor may choose to file as a misdemeanor or felony based on certain factors including the accused individual's criminal history, and the specific details of the case. Examples of wobbler offenses include inflicting bodily injury on a former or current spouse or cohabitant as is often the case in domestic violence issues, and forgery. Regardless of your situation, it is critical to consult with a seasoned Los Angeles felony attorney when charged with a felony offense.

Not all felony offenses are violent; for instance, an individual may be charged with a felony even in non-violent situations such as shoplifting or petty theft if the individual has a prior conviction. Some of the most common felony crimes in California include:

• Mayhem
• Kidnapping
• Arson
• Involuntary manslaughter
• Embezzlement
• Fraud
• Identity Theft
• Sexual assault or abuse
• Illegal possession of pornography
• Robbery
• Murder
• Other white collar crimes
• Drug crimes including possession, manufacturing, distributing, and possession with intent to sell

It is also important to note that in California, many felony offenses are considered a strike, and under the Three Strikes Law will leave a convicted individual facing enhanced penalties. For example, a prior strike convicted will leave you facing a prison sentence which is doubled if convicted on a second strike or felony offense.

As you can see, being accused of a felony offense is not to be taken lightly. Even if the charges against you are completely unfounded, the repercussions can be serious. Those who are found not guilty often remain under a cloud of suspicion, which can impact your personal and professional life. Never attempt to fight felony charges in LA on your own, regardless of your guilt or innocence; your legal rights must be protected, and most important of all your freedom.

If you have been charged with a felony crime, it is imperative you contact an aggressive Los Angeles felony defense lawyer right away. Sentencing for those convicted depends on many factors, including past criminal history, whether a weapon was used in the commission of the crime, and whether the defendant played a passive role in the offense. However, judges have the discretion to sentence defendant's to prison based on low, middle, or high term; most choose the middle term which falls in between minimum and maximum sentencing in terms of prison time.

For outstanding legal guidance and representation, contact The Justice Firm today. Our mission is to protect your legal rights and obtain positive results in your felony case. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling 310-914-2444.