Santa Rosa Felony Attorney

Experienced Santa Rosa Felony Attorneys Here to Defend You

Santa Rosa Felony Lawyers

Why You Need a Skilled Criminal Defense Lawyer for Your Felony Case

A felony is a serious criminal charge that carries penalties of more than one year in prison or, in extreme cases, the death penalty. In California, felonies are grouped based on severity and potential penalties. The specific consequence of a charge depends on the nature of the offense, prior convictions, and other aggravating factors. If you are facing felony charges in Santa Rosa, hiring a Santa Rosa felony attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and building a strong defense. Skilled defense lawyers can assess the prosecution’s case, explain the potential consequences of a conviction, and develop the most effective strategy for your situation.

An experienced attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors to seek a charge reduction or even a case dismissal. In some situations, this may involve a plea bargain, where a lesser charge is accepted in exchange for a reduced sentence. Given the complexities of felony cases, having a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference in securing the best possible outcome. If you’re facing criminal charges, don’t navigate the legal system alone—reach out to Andrew Conway Law today to get the legal defense you need today.

Legal Consequences of a Felony Conviction

In California, a felony is the most serious type of offense in criminal law, carrying harsh penalties that can have long-term consequences. Unlike misdemeanors, felonies often result in lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, and restrictions on future opportunities. The specific penalties depend on the severity of the crime, prior criminal history, and other aggravating factors. Here’s what you need to know about the potential legal consequences of a felony conviction in California:

  • Felonies in California can lead to incarceration in state prison or county jail for one year or longer.
  • Some felonies are "wobblers," meaning they can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances.
  • More serious crimes, such as violent offenses or those involving weapons, often result in enhanced sentencing under California’s Three Strikes Law, which can increase penalties for repeat offenders.

  • Felony convictions often carry fines ranging from a few thousand dollars to $10,000 or more, depending on the crime.
  • Courts may also require restitution payments to victims to cover financial losses related to the crime.

  • Some felons may avoid prison by serving time under formal (felony) probation, which includes strict conditions such as:
    • Regular check-ins with a probation officer
    • Mandatory counseling, drug testing, or rehabilitation programs
    • Travel restrictions and curfews
  • Those released from state prison may be placed on parole, requiring ongoing supervision and compliance with strict regulations.

A felony conviction can permanently impact your rights, including:

  • Loss of firearm rights – Convicted felons cannot legally own, possess, or purchase firearms in California.
  • Voting restrictions – Felons lose the right to vote while incarcerated but can register to vote upon release.
  • Employment challenges – Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony conviction can make it difficult to secure jobs, particularly in government, healthcare, and financial industries.
  • Professional licensing barriers – Felons may be disqualified from certain professional licenses, affecting careers in law, medicine, real estate, and other fields.

For non-U.S. citizens, a felony conviction can result in deportation, denial of re-entry, or loss of legal immigration status. Certain offenses, including drug crimes, violent crimes, and fraud-related felonies, are considered deportable offenses under federal immigration law.

California’s Three Strikes Law imposes harsher penalties on repeat felony offenders:

  • A second felony conviction can result in double the standard prison sentence.
  • A third felony conviction (if it qualifies as a “serious” or “violent” crime) can lead to 25 years to life in prison.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

Given the serious and life-altering consequences of a felony conviction, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense litigation team on your side. A lawyer can challenge the charges, negotiate plea deals, fight for reduced sentencing, and explore options like expungement to help clear your record. If you’re facing felony charges in Northern California, don’t wait—consult with a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your future.

Understanding the Difference Between Being Charged and Convicted

Facing a felony charge can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that being charged does not mean you will be convicted. A charge simply means that law enforcement and prosecutors believe there is enough evidence to bring a case against you—it does not mean guilt has been proven. With the help of a Santa Rosa felony attorney, you can challenge the charges, present a strong legal strategy, and fight for the best possible outcome, whether that means a dismissal, reduced charges, or an acquittal.

Expungement and Clearing Your Criminal Record

For those who have already been convicted, not all criminal convictions can be expunged, but many misdemeanors and certain felonies do qualify. In the criminal justice system under California law, felony convictions can be expunged if:

  • You were not sentenced to state prison
  • You successfully completed probation

Expungement is a legal process where a judge reopens a case, sets aside the conviction, and dismisses it, allowing you to legally state that you have not been convicted of that crime in most situations. However, the decision is at the judge’s discretion, and securing expungement often requires multiple court hearings, arguments against the district attorney, and thorough legal filings.

A skilled criminal defense firm will handle all aspects of the expungement process, including:

  • Researching eligibility and preparing a strong petition
  • Filing necessary motions with the court
  • Responding to opposition from the district attorney
  • Sending a Santa Rosa criminal defense lawyer to represent you in hearings before the judge

If you’re facing a felony charge or seeking an expungement, having the right legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your future and your freedom. Contact us today to discuss your options.

The Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney in Felony Cases

A criminal defense attorney in California plays a crucial role in protecting the rights, freedom, and future of individuals facing felony charges. Felonies are the most serious offenses, carrying potential prison time, heavy fines, and life-changing consequences. Whether someone is accused of violent crimes, drug offenses, theft, or white-collar crimes, a criminal defense lawyer provides essential legal guidance and fights to achieve the best possible outcome.

What a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Do for Someone Facing Felony Charges

  1. Protect Your Rights
    • Ensure law enforcement followed proper procedures during arrest and investigation.
    • Prevent unlawful searches and seizures that could violate your constitutional rights.
    • Advise you on your right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination.
  2. Investigate and Build a Strong Defense
    • Gather evidence, witness statements, and expert testimony to challenge the prosecution’s case.
    • Review police reports and surveillance footage for inconsistencies or errors.
    • Identify legal strategies, such as mistaken identity, self-defense, or lack of intent.
  3. Negotiate with Prosecutors
    • Work to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors in “wobbler” cases.
    • Secure plea deals that minimize jail time or avoid a criminal conviction altogether.
    • Argue for alternative sentencing, such as probation or diversion programs.
  4. Defend You in Court
    • Represent you in pre-trial hearings, bail hearings, and trials.
    • Cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence to weaken the prosecution’s case.
    • Present a compelling defense before a judge or jury if the case goes to trial.
  5. Work Toward Post-Conviction Relief
    • File for appeals if there were legal errors in the trial process.
    • Help with expungement or record sealing if eligible, allowing for a fresh start.
    • Assist with parole hearings or post-conviction modifications.

Contact our Santa Rosa Felony Lawyers Today

If you are facing felony charges, taking immediate action is crucial to protecting your rights and freedom. A skilled Santa Rosa felony attorney can provide the strong legal defense you need, helping you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.

Don’t wait to seek legal help—the sooner you act, the better your chances of a successful defense. Whether you’re looking to reduce charges, negotiate a plea, or fight for a dismissal, having the right attorney on your side makes all the difference. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your legal options.