Felony Charge Defense Attorney

A felony is the most serious crime that can be charged, a felony conviction can lead to:

Imprisonment: Felony convictions often result in a multi-year sentence in jail or state prison, depending on the severity of the offense and other factors.

Fines: Convicted individuals may face significant fines and fees totaling more than $10,000 as part of their sentence.

Probation: In some cases, a judge may impose probation instead of or in addition to prison time.  Formal probation typically involves strict supervision and adherence to certain conditions.  Sex offenders are also required to register and update their informationally annually with law enforcement.

Loss of Rights: Felony convictions can result in the loss of constitutional rights, such as the right to vote, hold public office, serve on a jury, or possess firearms.

Difficulty Finding Employment: Having a felony record can make it challenging to secure employment, as many employers conduct background checks and may be hesitant to hire individuals with criminal records.

Loss of Government Benefits: Some agencies may deny benefits, such as federal student loans and housing assistance to individuals with felony convictions.

Immigration Consequences: Non-citizens convicted of felonies may face deportation or other immigration consequences, including being ineligible for certain visas or residency statuses.

Loss of Professional Licenses: Certain professions, such as law, medicine, or teaching, may require licenses that can be revoked or denied to individuals with felony convictions.

Call our expert Criminal Defense Attorneys at 916-903-3914 to request a free consultation at our Sacramento Law Office and take the first step toward reclaiming control of your future.

Felony Crime FAQ

Felony charges are complicated. When charged with felony you face consequences in the criminal justice system that could have lifelong negative consequences.

It is important to us that you understand everything about your case and know what to expect. We make it a priority to communicate the case details as they unfold and ensure that your questions are answered. We are here to help.

Almost any crime can be a felony. Some of the felonies commonly charged are:

  • Rape
  • Drug Sales
  • Robbery
  • Burglary
  • Assault

A wobbler is a crime that can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. A crime “wobbles up” when it is charged as a felony, and a crime “wobbles down” when charged as a misdemeanor.

In criminal cases, the District Attorney decides whether to charge your case as a misdemeanor or felony and can be convinced to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor before filing or later in the proceedings.

The DA will charge a wobbler as a felony if:

  • You have a criminal record
  • You are on probation or parole
  • You caused significant damage, including physical injury

A person charged with a felony is entitled to a preliminary hearing before trial. At the preliminary hearing, the court determines if there is enough evidence for the case to go forward. The preliminary hearing is the first opportunity to test the government’s case against you.

A felony conviction in California can have long-lasting effects on both the individual’s legal standing and personal well-being. It’s essential for individuals facing criminal charges to seek legal counsel to understand their rights and options. The personal consequences of a felony include, but are not limited to:

Stigma and Social Consequences: Felony convictions frequently carry a significant social stigma, affecting relationships with family, friends, and the community.

Impact on Family: A felony conviction can have emotional and financial repercussions for the individual’s family members, including spouses, children, and parents.

Limited Opportunities: Individuals with felony convictions may face limitations in accessing education, housing, and other opportunities due to their criminal record.

Psychological Impact: The stress and emotional toll of a felony conviction can be profound, leading to feelings of anger, shame, guilt, and anxiety.

Difficulty Reintegrating into Society: Reintegrating into society after a felony conviction can be very difficult, as individuals may encounter barriers to employment, housing, and other aspects of daily life.