As criminal defense lawyers, a big part of what we do is fight felony charges. These charges range in severity and in how complex they are to fight, so we often use a variety of strategies to find the best way to handle each case. Our strategies are refined from handling a large number of cases over the years. Here is what you should know about how criminal defense lawyers fight with felony defense strategies.
Types of Felony Charges Commonly Faced
Felony cases often include offenses with severe penalties. Charges range from violent accusations to property crimes. We defend you in cases such as armed robbery, assault with a weapon, homicide, and domestic violence.
Drug charges are also common, including drug possession with intent to distribute or drug trafficking accusations tied to controlled substances. Theft and financial crimes include embezzlement, securities fraud, and forgery.
We also see felony drunk driving or repeat DUI charges, especially around the holidays. Prosecutors often push for long prison terms and heavy fines in these matters.
Immediate Steps Taken After a Felony Arrest
After police arrest you, we assert your right to legal counsel. One of our lawyers is present to make sure that you receive direct advice to avoid statements that prosecutors later twist and use against you. Silence protects you when officers attempt to pressure you into quick answers.
As soon as possible, we review the case, including all of its available evidence. The sooner we can do this, the better the chances of a successful outcome are, since we can respond quickly and effectively to any further action from law enforcement. In some cases, evidence is not handled correctly. In other cases, law enforcement does not handle the situation the way that they should. Any issues with evidence or procedure could be grounds to have the charges dismissed.
We also meet with you discuss the case as soon as possible. That way, we can advise you on how to handle the situation so that you don’t make it worse. Our attorneys step in to speak for you to avoid making incriminating statements or causing other issues in your case. From there, our goal is to walk you through the next phase of legal action if the charges are not dropped or your case is not dismissed by the court.
Presenting a Strong Defense at Trial
Our team prepares a defense narrative that explains your side of the story. We focus on the evidence that supports you and highlight inconsistencies in the prosecution’s theory.
Cross-examination challenges the foundation of the state’s argument. We call witnesses who provide helpful context and testify to facts that contradict allegations.
Expert Testimony Used in Felony Cases
Expert witnesses supply knowledge that jurors do not possess. Forensic specialists examine fingerprints, ballistics, DNA evidence, and chemical samples. Their findings influence how the jury views physical evidence.
For example, mental health experts provide insight into cognitive issues and trauma that may affect the case. In other situations, evidence experts can testify on specific elements of each case based on their field of expertise. Many pieces of evidence, such as DNA and crime scene forensics, are misunderstood by most people. Having an expert testify to the true meaning behind the evidence and why it does not prove the prosecution’s case can turn a trial in your favor.
Appeals After Conviction
Judges sometimes make legal mistakes during a trial, which is why we review the case and look for errors that can lead to an appeal. An appeal asks a higher court to correct those mistakes, which means you get another trial or the case can be thrown out entirely. Appeals are uncommon, but there is a history of appeals overturning cases and giving defendants a second chance to prove themselves in court. In some of those cases, appeals were successful because lawyers took a long, hard look at the case and found errors that changed everything about how the court made its previous decision.
Protecting Client Rights Throughout the Process
Every stage of a felony case demands attention. We keep a close watch on government conduct to ensure due process as we fight felony charges on your behalf. Officers, prosecutors, and court officials must follow the law, and we push back any time your rights face risk. You do not face the system alone or without guidance. We keep communication open so you feel supported before, during, and after the trial.
Get Help From a Criminal Defense Attorney
Felony charges threaten your freedom, your career, and your future. Don’t hesitate to seek help from criminal defense attorneys who know how to fight felony charges effectively. Their experience can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Make the call as soon as possible to give yourself the best chance at a successful criminal defense. Contact Phillips Carson Phillips today by calling (912) 232-0081 for a free consultation.