FREE Consultation
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
YOU HAVE RIGHTS
WE FIGHT FOR THEM
A felony is considered a crime of high seriousness. A conviction of a felony in a court of law defines a person as a convicted felon. The State and Federal government classifies a felony by imprisonment in excess of one year.
If punishable by exactly one year or less, it is then classified as a misdemeanor. Some crimes, especially drug related crimes, carry a minimum mandatory prison sentence. Additionally, if the person has been previously convicted, the sentencing penalties can be significantly increased.
DURING THE ARREST
Local Police will most likely bring a suspect to the police station for questioning and processing. It is most important that a criminal defense lawyer be present to advise and protect their rights. Without a lawyer present, police often continue asking questions until they obtain the answers they seek.
If the person arrested has not been able to post bond and released from custody, that person will appear before a Judge within twenty four hours. A criminal attorney should be present at this hearing to ascertain if the police had probable cause for the arrest and, if so, to petition the Court to lower the
bond amount.
AFTER THE ARREST
The time between the arrest and the Arraignment is a critical period in the case, and it usually occurs within 21 days from the arrest. This is the opportunity for your attorney to speak to the prosecutors in an attempt not to have the charges formally filed or reduced.
Do not wait until you are officially charged. This window of opportunity will close soon after the arrest.