Rancho Cucamonga Felony Defense Attorney

Staunch Defense for Serious Crimes in California

More serious than misdemeanors, felonies are reserved for the harshest crimes. Because of this, they come with serious penalties, including huge fines, years of imprisonment, and even the death penalty. Being accused of a felony can seem undeniably bleak, including adding stress and anxiety on you and your family.

In addition to this, California has “wobbler” cases – those that can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. For example, grand theft auto cases may be tried either way, depending on prior convictions or the behavior of the defendant.

What is Considered a Felony?

The penal code, or the vehicle code, gives us directions as to what is a felony or what is a misdemeanor. However, the district attorney within those confines of the penal code or vehicle code ultimately has a discretion on how to file the case.

In reviewing the case, the district attorney's office is going to look for a number of things, including:

• How offensive is the behavior?
• How violent is the crime?
• How egregious is the conduct of the person being charged?

What is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?

A felony charge carries more jail time -- that is the big difference between a felony charge and a misdemeanor charge.

In addition, a felony charge means longer probationary periods and formal probationary periods where:

• You have search and seizure terms
• And where law enforcement can come and search you without probable cause or warrant

They can also prohibit you from spending time with other people. On the other hand with a misdemeanor, the most jail time that you will face is likely up to a year in a county jail.

What is California's Three Strikes Rule?

California's Three Strikes Rule states that each subsequent offense adds the possibility of a harsher sentence and longer prison time. However, there are statutes of limitations on all cases.

This is the time limit which prosecution has to bring a case against you. The limitations are different for each circumstance and there are exceptions. Hiring a dedicated Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense attorney from Newman & Allen is always in your best interest.

We know the laws and we have helped numerous clients throughout our nearly 20 years in practice. While we know that each case is different and that there are unique circumstances in every situation, our experience can benefit you before and during trial.

What are Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction?

Being convicted as a felon comes with a number of serious penalties. Prison times and fines are just the beginning—there are many other ways that a conviction can follow you around for life. That is why when our firm takes a case, we do everything possible to defend our clients against these charges.