Downey Felony Lawyer
Felonies and the Three Strikes Law
The most serious crimes in our state, punishable by the harshest sentences, are felonies. Examples of felonies are first degree burglary, certain drug crimes, specific sexual crimes, murder and others. There is also a category of crime called a "wobbler." These are offenses which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, dependent upon a person's criminal history and the circumstances of the crime. Domestic violence, hit and run, assault and embezzlement are each types of offenses which are considered wobblers.
When you are found guilty of a felony, it can have disastrous effects for you and your family. Even the shortest sentences can still hurt your ability to get a job, obtain housing and impact other aspects of your life. California's three strikes law makes it particularly tough for repeat offenders as the penalties escalate steeply which each conviction. For a third conviction, a person is automatically sentenced from 25 years to life in prison with no chance for parole.
This is why it is important to use a committed Downey criminal defense attorney from Law Office of James Mendez to provide a knowledgeable defense in your case and strive to minimize the penalties you face.
Felony Defense Attorney in Downey: Violent Crimes, Drug Crimes, Sex Crimes
When an individual is convicted of a felony, they will usually be sentenced under what is known as "Determinate Sentencing" laws. This means that a judge will decide which of 3 prison sentences to impose - low, middle or high term. Whether a crime involved a substantial amount of violence or bodily harm, if a gun or weapon was used and the criminal history of the defendant will all weigh heavily against the person found guilty of a felony. Certain circumstances, such as the crime being committed because of unusual factors or the defendant being under coercion or duress, may assist in sentencing.
Attorney Mendez has successfully resolved thousands of criminal cases and concentrates only on criminal defense. In many cases, felony charges can be defended in such a way as to produce a favorable outcome to your case. Even if a person is convicted, it may still be possible to avoid jail time using alternative sentencing options.
To understand your defense options against felony charges, contact a Downey felony lawyer from the office today.