Being charged with a felony is one of the most stressful and frightening experiences a person can go through. The consequences of a felony conviction are severe, including heavy fines, a permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, and potentially years behind bars. When facing a felony charge, you may feel helpless and uncertain about your future. However, there are proactive steps you can take to give yourself the best possible chance at a favorable outcome. As experienced criminal defense attorneys, the team at Kosnett Law Firm is here to provide guidance on how you can help your felony case.
Understand the Charges Against You
The first step in mounting an effective defense is to fully understand the specific charges you are facing. Felonies encompass a wide range of offenses, from drug crimes to violent crimes to white-collar crimes. Each type of felony has its own set of elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt in order to secure a conviction. By working with your attorney to gain a clear picture of the allegations against you, you can better assist in building a targeted defense strategy.
It is also critical to understand the potential penalties associated with the charges. Felonies are categorized into different classes, with each class carrying its own sentencing guidelines. In some cases, a felony conviction may result in a statutory minimum prison sentence. Armed with knowledge of the stakes involved, you and your attorney can make informed decisions about how to approach your case.
Be Honest and Forthcoming With Your Attorney
When it comes to criminal defense, honesty is always the best policy. Your attorney is your greatest ally and advocate, but they can only provide effective representation if you are fully transparent with them. This means disclosing all facts about your case, even if they may seem unfavorable or embarrassing. Remember, anything you tell your attorney is protected by attorney-client privilege and cannot be used against you.
Being forthcoming with your attorney allows them to anticipate potential challenges and develop a proactive strategy. If there are weaknesses in your case, your attorney needs to know about them upfront so they can work to mitigate them. Conversely, if there are facts that could be helpful to your defense, your attorney can investigate further and potentially use them to your advantage. Surprising your attorney with new information down the line will only hinder their ability to mount a strong defense on your behalf.
Gather Evidence and Identify Witnesses
In any criminal case, evidence is key. Your attorney will work diligently to uncover all relevant evidence, but you can assist in this process. Think carefully about any physical evidence that may exist, such as documents, video footage, or objects, and bring them to your attorney’s attention. If there were witnesses to the alleged crime or events surrounding it, provide your attorney with their names and contact information.
Keep in mind that evidence that may seem damaging at first glance could actually be used to your benefit. For example, if there is video footage of the alleged crime, it may show that you were acting in self-defense or that the police violated your rights during the arrest. By casting a wide net and examining all available evidence, your attorney can construct a comprehensive defense strategy.
Consider a Plea Bargain
In some cases, the best course of action may be to negotiate a plea bargain. This is some sort of agreement in which you plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a more lenient sentence. While the prospect of pleading guilty can be daunting, it may be preferable to the risk of a harsher sentence if convicted at trial.
Your attorney will carefully review the facts of your case and advise you on whether a plea bargain is a viable option. If a plea bargain is on the table, your attorney will negotiate with the prosecution to secure the most favorable terms possible. Ultimately, the decision of whether to accept a plea bargain is yours, but your attorney will provide guidance and support to help you make an informed choice.
Our Los Angeles Law Firm is Here for You
At Kosnett Law Firm, we understand the immense stress and uncertainty that comes with facing a felony charge. Our team of seasoned attorneys is committed to providing aggressive, client-focused representation to individuals throughout the criminal justice process. If you or a loved one is facing a felony charge, do not hesitate to contact us for a confidential consultation.
Related Links:
- What is Considered a Felony in California?
- What Jobs Can I Get With a Felony on My Record?
- What Rights Will I Lose After a Felony Conviction in California?
- When Does a Theft Offense Become a Felony In California?
