Felony Attorney: A Serious Lawyer for a Serious Charge

In the U.S., most crimes are put into one of two categories: a misdemeanor or a felony. Attorney rights and needs may differ between the two, as well as a client's need. The latter is certainly the more serious of the two and may carry with it punishments with severe penalties, such as an extended prison sentence. Misdemeanors may also carry stiff penalties, but they generally do not exceed a year's stay in prison. In real terms, most convicted felons do not spend more than a year in prison, but that's no reason to take a chance. Here are some differences between the charges and why it's so important to have a lawyer on your side.

Classification

The specific classifications differ from state to state. One state may consider a particular crime a misdemeanor, while another state may feel it is a more serious charge. You will be informed as to which charge you are facing. Even within the two main classification systems, there are usually further classifications. For instance, you might be facing a Class A misdemeanor charge, as opposed to a Class B or Class C. Some states, however, make no distinction between the various classes. The confusion that can arise with all of these classifications and charges is but one of the reasons why hiring a felony attorney is a good idea. If nothing else, he will be able to explain in simple terms what you are looking at.

Consequences

As any felony attorney can tell you, there are a host of more serious consequences for more serious charges. Obviously, the punishments are harsher. A charge for nabbing a pack of Doritos from a convenience store is not going to carry similar punishments to murder. But punishment isn't the only difference. Convicted felons have a lot of restrictions put on them, even after release. It can be very difficult to find employment after being convicted of a serious crime. In many states, your right to vote is taken away. You may also be limited in your rights to bear arms, perform jury duty, or apply for government benefits.

Reducing a Charge

One of the many tricks in the pocket of a good felony attorney is the ability to negotiate a charge down. When there is room to bargain, they may attempt to get the prosecutor to reduce a particular charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. This can have a substantial effect on the punishment, as well as the other consequences that go along with the more serious charge. This kind of negotiation power is hard to come by in an average defendant, which is why you want a good lawyer by your side.