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Felony Defense

Riverside Felony Lawyers

Have You Been Arrested for a Felony in California?

A felony is the most serious type of crime in California. If you have been convicted of a felony, you may face serious consequences, including time in state prison, heavy fines, and a loss of civil rights. DeLimon Law is your trusted Riverside felony lawyer who has a decade of experience in handling complex felony matters and can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

If you or someone you love has been charged with a felony, contact DeLimon Law today at (951) 777-9104 or online for a free consultation. We can help you in your time of need.

Understanding Common Types of Felony Crimes in California

In California, there are several common types of felony crimes that are recognized under state law. It's important to note that felony crimes are typically more serious offenses than misdemeanors and are punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, hefty fines, or both.

Here are some common types of felony crimes in California:

  • Assault with a Deadly Weapon: This refers to intentionally using a deadly weapon to cause injury or harm to another person. The weapon can be anything capable of causing serious bodily harm or death, such as a knife or firearm.
  • Burglary: It involves unlawfully entering a structure (residence, business, or other premises) with the intent to commit theft or any other felony once inside. This can include breaking into a building or entering through an open door without permission.
  • Robbery: This offense occurs when a person uses force, fear, or intimidation to take someone else's property directly from their person or immediate presence. It involves the element of threat or force against the victim.
  • Drug Possession and Trafficking: Drug-related offenses can range from simple possession of controlled substances, such as cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine, to more serious offenses like drug trafficking, manufacturing, or distributing narcotics.
  • Homicide: This includes crimes such as murder, manslaughter, and vehicular manslaughter. Murder involves the intentional killing of another person, while manslaughter refers to an unlawful killing without premeditation or malice aforethought.
  • Sexual Assault: This category includes various forms of non-consensual sexual acts, such as rape, sexual battery, and sexual abuse. These crimes involve engaging in sexual activity without the explicit consent of the other person or when the other person is unable to provide consent.
  • Fraud: Felony fraud offenses can include identity theft, embezzlement, insurance fraud, credit card fraud, and securities fraud. These crimes involve deceit, misrepresentation, or intentional deception for personal gain.
  • Kidnapping: This crime involves unlawfully taking and detaining another person against their will by force, fear, or fraud. Kidnapping can occur for ransom, as part of another felony, or with the intent to commit other crimes like sexual assault or robbery.
  • Weapons Offenses: Felony weapons offenses involve the illegal possession, sale, or use of firearms or other dangerous weapons. This can include possessing firearms without the required permits or using them during the commission of another felony.
  • White-Collar Crimes: This category encompasses a range of non-violent offenses typically committed in business or professional settings. Examples include embezzlement, bribery, insider trading, and money laundering.

What to Know About Felony Sentencing in California

In California, the sentencing of felonies is determined by various factors, including the nature and severity of the crime, the defendant's criminal history, and the discretion of the judge. The state has a complex sentencing structure that takes into account both determinate and indeterminate sentencing.

Under determinate sentencing, the punishment for a felony offense is set by statute and provides a specific term of imprisonment. The California Penal Code establishes three categories of felonies: misdemeanors with a maximum sentence of one year or less, wobblers (offenses that can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor), and straight felonies with prison terms exceeding one year.

For straight felonies, the Penal Code usually assigns a specific term of imprisonment. For example, if a person is convicted of a felony offense with a determinate sentence of three years, they will serve the entire three-year term in prison.

On the other hand, some serious felonies in California are subject to indeterminate sentencing. This means that the defendant is given a range of possible sentences rather than a specific term. Indeterminate sentencing is primarily applied to offenses known as "Three Strikes" crimes and other violent offenses.

For Three Strikes crimes, if a defendant has two prior convictions for serious or violent felonies, they face an indeterminate sentence of 25 years to life in prison for any subsequent felony conviction. However, judges still have discretion to depart from the mandatory sentence in certain circumstances.

Local Riverside Resources for Felony Defense

If you find yourself facing felony charges in Riverside, it’s crucial to understand the local landscape and available resources. The Riverside County District Attorney's Office is responsible for prosecuting felony cases, and they have a dedicated team that handles a variety of offenses. Understanding their approach can help you prepare your defense strategy effectively.

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Riverside Police Department, are actively involved in felony investigations, which can lead to heightened scrutiny in certain neighborhoods. This can create anxiety for residents who may feel targeted or unfairly treated. At DeLimon Law, we recognize these concerns and are committed to providing compassionate and knowledgeable support to our clients.

Moreover, the Riverside community faces unique challenges, such as the impact of economic disparities and the prevalence of substance abuse issues, which can lead to increased felony charges. We understand that these factors can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and confusion. Our team is here to help you navigate these challenges, ensuring that you are informed and empowered throughout the legal process.

Whether you are in downtown Riverside or the surrounding areas, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and providing you with the guidance you need during this difficult time.

Our Firm is Here to Help

If you are facing felony charges, you need a Riverside felony lawyer who understands the complex legal issues surrounding felony charges and can help you reduce or dismiss your charges and help you avoid prison time. Our Riverside felony lawyers have handled thousands of cases and can help you explore all of your options and defenses.

We understand how serious felony charges are and can help you fight your felony charges and protect your rights. If you are facing felony charges, you need a Riverside felony lawyer who can help you.

Contact us at (951) 777-9104 to request a free case review and learn how we can help you. 

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the potential consequences of a felony conviction in California?

In California, a felony conviction can lead to severe repercussions, including imprisonment in state prison for more than a year, substantial fines, and the forfeiture of certain civil rights. The exact consequences depend on the nature of the felony, prior criminal history, and other factors considered during sentencing.

How can DeLimon Law assist me if I'm charged with a felony in Riverside?

DeLimon Law, with a decade of experience in handling complex felony cases, provides legal representation to those charged with felonies in Riverside. They offer guidance through the legal process, work to protect your rights, and aim to reduce or dismiss charges to help you avoid prison time.

What is the difference between determinate and indeterminate sentencing for felonies in California?

Determinate sentencing in California assigns a fixed prison term for a felony conviction, as defined by statute. Indeterminate sentencing, on the other hand, provides a range of possible prison terms, often applied to 'Three Strikes' crimes and other serious offenses, allowing for a minimum and maximum potential sentence.

What should I do if I am arrested for a felony in Riverside?

If you find yourself arrested for a felony in Riverside, the first step is to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. It’s crucial to avoid making any statements to law enforcement without legal representation. Contact a qualified Riverside felony lawyer immediately to discuss your situation. They can provide guidance on the legal process, help protect your rights, and work on building a strong defense.

How can a felony conviction affect my future in California?

A felony conviction in California can have significant long-term consequences. It may lead to imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record, which can affect your employment opportunities, housing options, and even your ability to vote. Additionally, certain professional licenses may be revoked or denied.

What are the potential defenses against felony charges in Riverside?

Defending against felony charges in Riverside can involve various strategies, depending on the specifics of your case. Common defenses include challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution, proving lack of intent, or demonstrating that your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation. Additionally, self-defense or alibi defenses may be applicable in certain situations.

Choose An Attorney You Can Trust

Selecting an attorney to defend you in a DUI case is a significant decision that will affect not only the outcome of your case but also your future and reputation. At DeLimon Law, we prioritize transparency, communication, and a proactive defense strategy, ensuring you remain informed and empowered throughout every stage of your case. Our local knowledge helps us identify potential issues quickly and act decisively, whether negotiating with prosecutors or navigating Riverside court procedures. Working with a trusted dui attorney in Riverside from DeLimon Law ensures you get the benefit of proven legal guidance specific to Riverside County.

We are committed to providing each client with a thorough evaluation and personalized defense plan, informed by over two decades of criminal law practice in California. Choosing us means working with a team that understands the nuances of Riverside County’s legal community and has earned the respect of both judges and fellow attorneys. Trust DeLimon Law, your Riverside DUI lawyer, to approach your case with dedication and integrity every step of the way.

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