How Felony Offenses Affect Personal And Professional Lives

When faced with a felony conviction, the stakes feel high. The repercussions for a criminal offense at this level can cause collateral consequences at the professional and personal level. The consequences can impact current careers, future opportunities, community reputation, and personal relationships.

At the Law Office of Alec Rose PC, we handle felony criminal defense cases where someone is accused of committing a legal wrongdoing. Felonies are the most serious category of criminal offenses, and are categorized by their severity.

California Felony Defense For Those Accused of Crimes

Felonies are broadly defined as either a violent crime, property crime, drug crime, white collar and fraud, and federal or other offenses. The consequences can involve years in prison. Examples of felony offenses can include murder or manslaughter, kidnapping, aggravated assault or battery, robbery, burglary, arson, grand larceny, drug trafficking, possession with intent to distribute, fraud, extortion, treason, child pornography, and certain DUI offenses.

Those who have been arrested for a felony offense may quickly realize that the judicial system process is stressful and overwhelming, as they worry about how their lives may be altered. Remembering that you are not guilty until proven so and that California laws allow you to obtain a legal defense can shift this concern considerably. Defense strategies can be used to reduce a charge or get it dropped.

Criminal Defense Strategies That Protect The Accused

Every person who is faced with a criminal charge has the right to obtain legal counsel and defend their position. Depending on the nature of the offense, there are many defense strategies that may be used. An attorney can assess what the accused is up against, and then suggest a defense that works for their situation. Defense strategies may involve proving reasonable doubt, self-defense, challenging rights violations, and possibly mental health programs. Factors of a criminal defense strategy include:

• Illegal search and seizure
• Violation of Miranda Rights
• Coerced confession
• Lack of intent
• Alibi
• Mistaken identity
• Insufficient evidence
• False accusations

For cases that are non-violent or involve veterans or people with mental health disorders, the laws for the state of California allow judges to halt the prosecution while the defendant is undergoing a treatment program or rehabilitation. After successful completion of the program, the charges may be dismissed. It may be possible to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the felony to a misdemeanor, or accept less penalties in exchange for a plea bargain.

What To Do After A Criminal Arrest Or Investigation

Anyone who has been accused of a criminal offense is wise to get legal representation. Our Venice Beach, CA felony lawyer understands how judges and the court system assess these cases. The defense strategy must be strong and thorough. The type of strategy used will depend on the facts of the case, what evidence the prosecution has against the accused, and other variables. If you were recently arrested for a felony criminal charge or are currently under investigation, we recommend seeking legal counsel immediately.