Felony Crimes
Felony crimes are generally defined as ‘serious’ criminal charges (as opposed to a misdemeanor charge, which are often considered ‘minor’ criminal charges). Specifically, the difference between a felony crime and a misdemeanor comes down to the severity of the sentencing, including fines.
Typical felony crimes include:
- Felony drug crimes
- Felony driving while intoxicated
- Felony sex crimes
- Felony theft crimes
- Robbery and burglary
- White collar crimes
- Internet crimes
- Federal crimes
- Murder
- Manslaughter
If you or a loved one has been charged with a felony crime, it is essential that you seek the advice of an experienced California criminal defense attorney. Having an attorney experienced with LA felony crimes is important as there is so much on the line. For example, if convicted of a felony crime, you could:
- Face a mandatory minimum sentence
- Lose ability to vote
- Be placed on long-term parole and/or probation
- Jail time
- Hefty fines
- If a non-citizen, deportation (even if you have permanent residency status)
- Loss of professional licenses and other work restrictions
- If a student, be disqualified for federal student loan aid
California Felony Crimes
California defines felony crimes as any crime punishable by death or incarceration in a state prison (or those that fall under the federal felony code). Whereas most states designate different classes of felonies, with specified punishments for each class level, California uses a system where legislators fix punishments on a crime-by-crime basis. Thus, unless it is a crime punishable by life imprisonment (i.e., murder), California has set three possible levels of sentencing: low, mid and high. According to the law, the judge is able to choose one of these three levels during sentencing, based on the specific circumstances of the felony.
In addition, California has a ‘three strikes’ policy that means people who are repeat offenders are automatically sentenced to long prison terms, regardless of the specified ‘level’.
Your California Felony Crimes Attorney
The Law Offices of Jonathan I. Kelman specialize in defending LA felony crimes. If you or a loved one is facing felony charges, seek the support of an attorney practicing only in criminal defense. Remember, when your future is on the line, call the Law Offices of Jonathan I. Kelman at 310.286.1218 for your free initial consultation.