Violent felony charges represent some of the most serious criminal offenses under the law, carrying equally severe penalties. As a result, prosecutors vigorously pursue convictions in cases involving violent felony crimes. Defendants facing such charges require seasoned legal representation to protect their rights and interests within the criminal justice system when facing prosecution for a violent felony charge.
Helping You Understand the Charges Against You
First, a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the details of the charges the prosecution has filed against you. An attorney can explain the elements that prosecutors must prove to secure a conviction and the possible penalties you might face following a conviction. A defense lawyer can also explain what to expect at each stage of a criminal prosecution. Having knowledgeable counsel can translate complex legal terms and concepts into language you can more easily understand. Knowing your legal options at an early stage of a criminal case can help you make informed decisions about how to proceed with your charges.
Protecting Your Rights During the Investigation
A criminal defense attorney can also look out for your civil and constitutional rights during a criminal investigation and prosecution. For example, a defense attorney can protect your rights when the police want to conduct a search or question you, helping you make an informed decision about whether to consent to a search or sit for questioning. An attorney can also advise you on what or what not to say if you decide to speak to the police. When the police have conducted unlawful searches or violated your rights during interrogations, your defense lawyer can file motions to exclude evidence or statements from the prosecution’s case.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy
A defense lawyer can independently investigate your felony charges to find evidence supporting your defense that police and prosecutors may not have looked for. With a complete evidentiary record, your criminal defense attorney can begin reviewing the facts to identify possible defense strategies, including factual or legal defenses you could assert or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that your attorney could highlight at trial. When facing violent felony charges, defenses you might raise at trial include:
- Lack of intent
- Self-defense
- Defense of others
- Mistaken identity
- Alibi
- Unreliable forensic evidence
Negotiating with Prosecutors
Your criminal defense attorney can help you pursue a favorable resolution to felony violent offense charges by negotiating with prosecutors, as pursuing a plea deal may yield the best outcome for your case. Defense lawyers can negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecution that involves reducing or dismissing charges or obtaining the prosecution’s agreement to recommend less harsh sentences. For example, prosecutors may agree to recommend sentencing alternatives to incarceration, such as probation, diversionary programs, or behavioral treatment. A skilled defense lawyer can give you a better chance at securing a better result in your case with a negotiated plea deal than simply entering an open guilty plea.
Representing You in Court
Should your case go to trial, an experienced defense attorney can present the most robust case possible under the facts and evidence to challenge the prosecution’s allegations and argue for why prosecutors have failed to prove every element of your violent felony charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
Being arrested for a violent felony offense can have life-altering consequences. You need help from a knowledgeable, dedicated advocate who can help you mitigate the effects of an arrest and pursue a favorable resolution to your charges. Contact Frank & Juengel Law Group P.C. today for a free phone consultation with a violent crimes defense attorney to learn more about how we can help you fight prosecution for violent felony charges.