Charged with a Felony? Why a Criminal Defense Attorney Should Be Your First Call

A felony is a serious offense that can restrict your freedom indefinitely.

In Missouri, a felony charge could lead to hefty punishments such as a $10,000 fine or life imprisonment.

Oftentimes, people are wrongfully charged and convicted for a felony offense. However, an expert criminal defense attorney can walk you through the rights and defenses available to you and investigate the strength of the evidence in your case. Not to mention, zealously represent you from the point of your arrest straight through trial.

Therefore, if you have been charged with a felony, a criminal defense attorney should be your first call.

What is a Felony Offense in Missouri?

A felony is an offense that has more serious consequences than a misdemeanor. The punishment for this offense is based on the classification allocated to each crime.

A felony can be classified as either a class A, B, C, D, or E offense.

Class A Offense is punishable by a term of 10 to 30 years in prison or life imprisonment. This classification includes the most serious offenses such as first-degree murder.
Class B Offense is punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison. This classification includes offenses like voluntary manslaughter.
Class C Offense is punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison and could also include a $10,000 fine. This classification includes offenses like 1^st-degree involuntary manslaughter.
Class D Offense is punishable by up to 7 years in prison and could also include a $10,000 fine. This classification includes offenses like filing a fraudulent insurance statement.
Class E Offense is punishable by up to 4 years in prison and could also include a $10,000 fine. This classification includes offenses like driving while your license is revoked (second or subsequent offense).

These offenses have severe penalties. However, if you have been charged with a felony, an experienced attorney may be able to get your charges reduced to a lower classification or obtain a “not guilty” verdict at trial.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Hiring a criminal defense attorney is crucial and possibly the most important step you can take if you have been charged with a felony.

An experienced attorney understands the law, the complex criminal justice process, and will be an exemplary advocate who is determined to obtain justice on your behalf.

An attorney can help you by:

1. Advising You of Your Rights

An attorney can help you understand the ins and outs of your felony charge and what rights or defenses you may have to mitigate the penalties for this charge.

2. Investigating the Evidence

An attorney will investigate the evidence for your case throughout the discovery period. This investigation can help them determine whether your arrest was valid and whether the prosecutor will be able to prove your guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt.”

3. Negotiating a Plea

Your attorney could also get your felony charges reduced or even dismissed through successfully negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecutor. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will use their skill and reputation to ensure that you receive a beneficial deal that can loosen the penalties for a felony offense.

4. Representing You at Trial

Your attorney will also represent you at trial. They will prepare your case through pre-trial discovery, file any necessary motions, engage any expert witnesses, and advocate for you in court to obtain a “not guilty” verdict.

Contact Our Office Today

With over 25 years of experience in criminal law practice both as a defense attorney and a chief assistant prosecutor, I will craft a path to a favorable outcome for your case. I have used my experience to obtain successful outcomes for many clients and I would love to do the same for you.

You can visit our office at 282 NE Tudor Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 to discuss your case in detail.

Contact us online or call us at (816) 287-2456 to schedule your free consultation.