When it comes to being charged with a crime, the consequences you face for a felony charge can be far harsher than those imposed for misdemeanors and can include hefty financial penalties, as well as the loss of your freedom and your reputation. Felony charges require the services of an experienced felony defense lawyer who can help you to get the charges reduced or may even be able to get the case dismissed.
In Arizona, there are six classes of felonies, each of which carries presumptive sentencing of incarceration for a year or more. While judges have discretion when it comes to sentencing, it is generally assumed that the defendant — upon conviction — will receive a sentence that is close to what the state has determined is an adequate punishment for the crime. Violent crimes carry a mandatory sentence of a specific length of incarceration, with time served in state prison rather than in a county or municipal jail. Those crimes include:
- Repeat criminal offenses by the defendant. One of the many reasons to hire an experienced felony defense lawyer to help with your case is that the consequences for subsequent offenses are almost always stricter than those experienced with a first-time conviction.
- Felony charges that involve violent crimes, in which another person is injured, killed, or there is an attempt or a high risk of causing injury or death to another person.
- Aggravated assault, which is defined as an attempt to cause serious harm to an individual with disregard for life.
- Assaults involving a deadly weapon during the commission of a crime.
- Assault and battery with a weapon.
- Crimes involving the use of a weapon, such as armed robbery.
When Should I Call A Felony Defense Lawyer?
Felonies can result in harsh fines, incarceration, and other penalties that can include education or rehabilitation, community service, probation or parole requirements, and other consequences. Even a Class 6 felony, which is the lowest severity level of felony crimes in Arizona, can result in up to a year or more in prison. More serious classes of felony crimes can result in decades of incarceration, or even the death penalty. Making matters worse, because a felony appears on your permanent record, the conviction can impact your future ability to own firearms, vote, or even obtain a job when you are released from prison.
The criminal process generally starts either with an investigation into a reported crime or an arrest. You have constitutional rights throughout the criminal legal process that must be protected. Because of this, if you have been arrested or are being investigated for any felony crime, it is important that you contact a criminal defense lawyer right away so he or she can ensure that your rights are upheld, even during the arrest and questioning.
How Does Felony Defense Differ from Misdemeanor Defense?
Unlike misdemeanors, felony convictions appear on your permanent legal record and are available to view by the public in a number of situations, such as when you are applying for a job, for college, or even for an apartment. Your felony defense lawyer will work to protect you from the harshest consequences of the law, generally focusing your defense on a resolution that will result in the fewest consequences. Some ways this can be accomplished include:
- Pressing for a case dismissal if the prosecution’s evidence is weak or if your rights are violated during the arrest and investigation.
- Challenging evidence that is presented to avoid having it used to help the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiating a deal with the prosecutor that will allow you to plead guilty to a lesser charge, therefore facing fewer consequences.
- Presenting evidence that will convince the judge to be lenient in sentencing.
While case dismissals, plea bargains, and the attempt at a lenient sentence are also facets of a misdemeanor defense, the stakes are a lot higher when it comes to felonies and often require a more aggressive defense.
Experienced Top-Rated Arizona Lawyers Positively Impacting Lives Through Effective Legal Advocacy
Protecting Your Rights and Your Future
Future First Criminal Law is your top choice for strong DUI and Criminal defense representation. With a focus on a limited number of clients, we dedicate our full attention to each case, ensuring personalized and effective legal solutions.
Why Choose Us?
- Client-Centric Approach: We understand your future is at risk and your well-being is our priority. We tailor our defense strategies to your unique circumstances, devoting time and attention to each client. We work diligently to develop a personalized, thorough defense giving you the best possible outcome.
- Reasonable Flat-Fee Pricing: No hourly rates. Our flat fee is determined by the charge and the complexity of your case.
- Flexible Payment Plans and Loans: We offer payment plans to accommodate your financial situation, ensuring access to quality legal representation.
- Free Phone Consultations: Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We’re here to help. Your future matters and it is worth fighting for.
- Local Experience: We provide our clients with extensive local experience, serving exclusively in the Phoenix area and Maricopa County. Our in-depth knowledge of local laws and procedures ensures we bring a strategic advantage to your case. Ranked as the 112th fastest-growing law firm in the U.S. in 2023, we have consistently achieved successful outcomes for our clients. For 5-Star testimonials from satisfied clients, please visit our Google Reviews.
- Dedication to Defense: Our commitment to DUI & Criminal defense ensures we provide you with informed advocacy and steadfast representation.
- Video Updates from Your Lawyer: Detailed, personalized video updates from your lawyer will address your concerns/questions.
- 24/7 Case Support: Straightforward support from our legal team throughout your case. We are available via text, email or phone.
- Educate and Advocate: We believe in empowering our clients by providing comprehensive legal guidance and unwavering support throughout the legal process.
Protect Your Rights, Schedule a Complimentary Phone Consultation
If you're facing DUI or other Criminal charges in Arizona, it's crucial to enlist the help of an experienced criminal lawyer. At Future First Criminal Law, we're dedicated to safeguarding your rights and freedoms. Contact Us Today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards a successful defense.
Future First Criminal Law stands as a seasoned legal team ready to assist with DUI and Criminal charges in the Phoenix Metro area. Discover how our team can be instrumental in navigating through your legal challenges.