If you find yourself in need of defending against felony charges, you’re likely feeling scared and overwhelmed. Felonies are serious crimes that carry severe penalties, and your future may feel up in the air. Whether it’s a drug offense, assault, or another criminal charge, having the right defense strategy can make all the difference. But how do you defend yourself against felony charges, and what should you look for in a criminal defense attorney?
We understand the weight these charges carry and the importance of having an experienced attorney by your side. Intermountain Criminal Defense will walk you through the steps in defending against felony charges and help you make informed decisions about your case.
Don’t Take Matters Into Your Own Hands When Defending Against Felony Charges
When seeking guidance in defending yourself against felony charges, you must understand what felonies are and why they are treated differently than misdemeanors. By definition, felonies are the harshest type of criminal offense in Utah, and they can range from violent crimes such as murder to non-violent crimes such as fraud or drug possession.
The consequences of a felony conviction often include lengthy prison sentences, substantial monetary fines, and a permanent criminal record. However, you don’t have to go through this arduous process alone. Understanding your rights and working with a qualified Utah criminal defense attorney who understands the local court system can help reduce or dismiss the charges against you.
Understanding Felony Classifications in Utah
In Utah, the law categorizes crimes into three main types: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Felonies are further divided into several classes, each with its own range of potential punishments:
Capital Felony
The most severe classification, a capital felony, is reserved for the most heinous crimes, such as aggravated murder. A conviction for a capital felony in Utah and Salt Lake counties can result in the death penalty, life in prison without parole, or life imprisonment.
First-Degree Felony
First-degree felonies, such as murder, rape, and aggravated burglary, carry a potential sentence of five years to life imprisonment and up to $10,000 in fines. Certain crimes, like aggravated murder, may include life without parole.
Second-Degree Felony
Offenses like manslaughter, robbery, and residential burglary are considered second-degree felonies, with a possible sentence ranging from one to fifteen years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
Third-Degree Felony
The least severe felony classification, third-degree felonies, include crimes such as burglary of a non-dwelling, theft over $1,000, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. These carry a maximum sentence of zero to five years imprisonment and up to $5,000 in fines.
Regardless of the specific classification, any felony charge should be taken seriously, as the potential consequences can have a lasting impact on your life. Hiring an experienced Salt Lake City criminal defense attorney is imperative to defending against felony charges.
See Also: What Are The Differences Between Misdemeanors and Felonies In Utah?
Key Tactics in Defending Against Felony Charges
The legal system provides several defenses that can be used by the accused to fight felony charges. Here are some of the most common ones:
Challenging the Evidence
One of the first steps in your defense is to examine the evidence presented against you:
- Was the evidence obtained legally?
- Were there any procedural errors, such as a violation of your Fourth Amendment or Miranda rights?
If police improperly gathered the evidence, it may be excluded from your case, significantly weakening the prosecution’s argument.
Your Salt Lake City felony defense lawyer will go over the police reports and review witness statements and physical evidence to determine if the police violated your rights. This type of defense can sometimes lead to charges being dropped before the case even goes to trial. Can the prosecution prove every piece of evidence was obtained by the book?
Read Also: Finding the Best Criminal Attorney in Salt Lake City
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
If you’re facing felony charges related to assault or other violent crimes, you may be able to defend against these charges by claiming self-defense. In Utah, you are legally allowed to defend yourself or others if you reasonably believe you are in imminent danger of being harmed. However, the force used must be proportionate to the threat you faced.
Self-defense claims can be complex, and the burden of proof often falls on you to show that your actions were justified. A skilled criminal defense attorney comes in handy here—by building a solid case that demonstrates your reasonable belief in danger. Could your actions be seen as justified in the eyes of the law?
Lack of Intent
Intent is a critical deciding factor in many felony cases, especially those involving theft, fraud, or other non-violent crimes. In order to convict, the prosecution must prove that you intended to commit the crime. If there is doubt about your intent—whether because of a misunderstanding, mistake, or lack of evidence—you may have a strong defense.
If you are charged with felony theft but you can show that you believed you had permission to take the property in question, your lack of intent could serve as a defense. Does the prosecution have solid evidence that proves you intended to break the law?
Plea Bargaining and Reduced Charges
In some cases, fighting for a complete dismissal may not be realistic. However, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain that reduces your charges. This type of defense could involve pleading guilty to a lesser offense, such as reducing a felony to a misdemeanor. While this might not result in a complete victory, it could help you avoid the harsh penalties associated with a felony conviction, such as extended prison time or a permanent criminal record.
A plea deal may not be ideal, but it could be the best option for your situation, especially if the evidence against you is considerable. Would a reduced charge make a significant difference in your future?
Read More: Plea Bargaining in Criminal Defense: Pros, Cons, and Strategies
Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Defending against felony charges in Utah requires not only knowledge of the law but also an understanding of the specific court system in Salt Lake and Utah counties. Each court has its own procedures, judges, and prosecution tactics, and having an attorney who knows how to navigate these variables can be the key to a successful defense.
At Intermountain Criminal Defense, we have twenty years of experience defending against felony charges for clients like you. We’ve built strong relationships with local judges and prosecutors, which can be advantageous when negotiating plea deals or arguing for reduced charges.
The Importance of Free Consultations
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney is a big decision, especially when your future is on the line. That’s why we offer 100% free consultations to residents of Salt Lake and Utah counties. During your consultation, we’ll review the details of your case and give you an honest assessment of your defense options. There’s no obligation—simply a chance to get professional advice that could make a difference in your case. Are you ready to take the first step toward defending yourself against felony charges?
If You Need Help Defending Against Felony Charges, Take Action Today
If you’re facing felony charges, time is not on your side. The sooner you hire a Salt Lake City criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of reducing or dismissing the charges against you. Every moment you wait is another moment the prosecution is building its case.
At Intermountain Criminal Defense, we are committed to helping you fight for your future. Whether you’re dealing with a violent crime such as assault and battery, drug offense, or another serious charge, our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Intermountain Criminal Defense today for your free consultation. The right criminal defense attorney can make all the difference—are you ready to protect your rights?
