Find a Local Felony Lawyer

If you have been charged with a crime, you could be facing an infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony. An infraction is a minor law violation that would be punishable by a fine. Examples of an infraction would be a parking ticket or a traffic ticket. A misdemeanor is a violation that is more serious than an infraction. A misdemeanor could be punishable by up to one year in jail. Convictions of petty theft, first time driving under the influence, or leaving the scene of an accident could all be classified as a misdemeanor. The most serious of the three violations is a felony offense.

There are various different crimes that could be classified as a felony and there are others that "wobble" between being charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Examples of crimes that could be charged as felonies are: murder, manslaughter, aggravated DUI, extreme DUI, kidnapping, weapons crimes, hate crimes, auto theft, arson, armed robbery, grand theft, fraud, rape, assault and battery, child pornography, drug trafficking, drug distribution, sex crimes, and white collar crimes. Some of these crimes are wobblers, depending on the severity of the crime as well as any other aggravating circumstances.

Penalties for a felony offense will vary based on what state the crime was committed in as well as the seriousness of the charge. The Criminal Code of Nebraska serves as a typical example of what one might expect from a felony conviction. They are classified from a Class IV felony to a Class I felony. A Class IV felony could result in up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. A Class IA felony is life imprisonment without parole and Class I results in the death penalty.

Knowing the severity of felony charges and convictions, it is of the utmost importance that you retrain the services of an experienced felony defense attorney. These charges will be prosecuted by skilled attorneys and you need an equally skilled and aggressive advocate to stand up for you in court. They could be what you need to get your charges reduced. Do not risk your future and freedom by failing to consult with a legal representative.