Riverside Felony Crime Attorney

Felonies and the "Three Strikes Law"

The difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is the matter of severity of the crime and, accordingly, the sentencing.  Felonies are crimes punishable by imprisonment in excess of one year and in the most severe cases can include the death penalty.  Misdemeanors are punishable by imprisonment of one year or less.  Being charged with a felony is a very serious matter.  If this has happened to you, contacting a Riverside criminal defense lawyer should be your first action.

California imposes some of the harshest sentencing for felony convictions.  The "three strikes law" requires significant increases of prison time after the first felony conviction, even if it was for a non-violent crime.  A second felony conviction automatically results in doubling of a prison term and a third requires a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.  It is important to note that the first and second "strikes" are counted by individual charges, rather than by case.

Help is Available

At Law Offices of Grech and Firetag, we understand that being charged with a crime is one of the most distressing events one can experience.  The threat of prison and the legal process in which one is now involved can be overwhelming.  We are here to help you through, answer your questions, and defend your rights.  We will work tirelessly to do all we can in the pursuit of the best possible outcome for your case.

Examples of felonies include:

• Homicide
• Aggravated assault
• Rape
• Possession of Schedule II narcotics
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Burglary
• Embezzlement
• Tax evasion
• Fraud
• Theft over 500 dollars
• Kidnapping

Our knowledge and experience can be of great benefit in a felony case and we will do everything we can to improve its outcome.  In some cases, we may even be able to have the felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor charge.  Having a felony conviction on your record can affect your future as regards employment opportunities and tenancy situations.  Professional licenses can also be cancelled, amongst other consequences.  Of course, the quality of your representation can mean the difference between imprisonment and your freedom. 

Contact a Riverside Felony Crime Attorney right away if you are facing felony charges, as these can result in severe punishment and other consequences.