How to Build a Strong Defense Against Felony Charges in Shasta County, CA

Being accused of a felony case can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when you do not understand what goes into building a successful defense. Fortunately, you do not need to face your felony charges alone. Hiring a felony crime defense lawyer can help you get answers to a variety of questions, such as how to build a strong defense against felony charges in Shasta County, California, while guiding you through the different steps of your case.

How to Build a Strong Defense Against Felony Charges in Shasta County, California

If you are looking to learn how to build a strong defense against felony charges in Shasta County, California, hiring a felony defense lawyer can be incredibly helpful. You may, however, benefit from learning about how you and your lawyer can work together to craft a strong defense and pursue your desired outcomes.

In the state of California, any crime for which you could be sentenced to more than one year is considered a felony. This fact is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony criminal offense. Felonies can carry severe consequences beyond jail or prison time, often including the potential loss of gun ownership rights, being made to pay significant fines, and other lasting collateral consequences.

Here are some examples of more common felonies in California. While they are not always felony-level crimes, these charges can have severe consequences if they’re upgraded from misdemeanors:

• DUIs
• Theft
• Unlawful drug and/or firearm possession
• Trespassing
• Assault

Why You Should Hire a Felony Lawyer in Shasta County, California

When you hire a felony lawyer to handle your case and represent you in a court of law, you may see that the likelihood of your case’s success improves. One study has shown that acquiring a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer in your case can have significant impacts on not only the outcome of your case, but also the amount of time you may spend in jail prior to any litigation.

In addition to spending less time in jail, a felony lawyer defending you can help your case in many ways.

The Role of the Felony Defense Lawyer

There are several important things that your lawyer can do to help prepare your case for court, including the following examples:

• Self-defense. Your lawyer can investigate your case by interviewing witnesses and gathering information. This can help them find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Analyzing evidence. Your lawyer can also analyze the evidence that the prosecutor is presenting against you, identifying weak points in their case and, if relevant, challenging any unlawful methods that law enforcement may have used to obtain evidence.
• Filing legal motions. Your lawyer can file motions on your behalf, such as motions to suppress evidence if they suspect that there were constitutional violations. This could end up leading to your case being dismissed.
• Negotiating pleas. Your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor, seeking reduced charges or sentencing, and, therefore, potentially lowering a felony charge to a misdemeanor one.

Potential Defense Strategies

There are several different types of defense strategies that your lawyer may be able to present in your case, such as:

• Self-defense. It is legal to use lawful force to protect yourself from harm, so if you and your lawyer can prove this was the case, your case may be thrown out.
• Insufficient evidence. If your lawyer argues that the prosecution has not presented enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, your charges may be dropped.
• Constitutional violations. Your lawyer can challenge the methods by which law enforcement gathered evidence, such as unlawful searches, arrests, or other violations of your constitutional rights.
• Alibi. If you can provide evidence that you were somewhere else at the time of the crime, you may be released.
• Mental state defenses. Your lawyer can use defenses like insanity or intoxication to argue that you could not possess the required intent for the crime.

Your Time in Court

It is common for defendants in felony cases to be required to attend legal proceedings at their local courthouse, which will most likely take place at the Criminal Division of the Superior Court of California, County of Shasta. When you hire a Shasta County drug crime lawyer, you can receive the representation and advocacy you need, as well as access to the knowledge you need to achieve your desired outcomes.

Facing criminal charges can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when it comes to presenting your case and defending yourself in a California criminal court of law. Fortunately, with the help of your lawyer, you will not need to do this alone.

Hire a Felony Lawyer

When you are facing felony criminal charges, you need the support of a lawyer who not only knows California felony law but also understands how it applies to your unique situation. At Eric Alan Berg & Associates, we believe in taking the time to get familiar with your case, as well as working hard to tailor our approach and insight to your needs.

You deserve the personalized care of a small firm while having access to the resources of a much larger one. Connect with us today to learn how we can help you with your case, as we have successfully helped many other clients who were previously in your same position.

FAQs

What Kind of Evidence Can Be Presented in a Felony Case in California?

Evidence presented in a felony case in California will vary based on the charges. Common evidence includes pictures, videos, recorded phone calls, witness testimonials, personal statements, police reports, and more. One of the ways that your lawyer may be able to refute evidence is by determining whether it was obtained unlawfully.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Felony Defense Lawyer in California?

The cost of hiring a felony defense lawyer in California depends on the circumstances of your case. Some of these variables include who you hire to represent you, the amount of time your case requires to reach a resolution, and how complex your case is overall. To determine the costs you could incur, speak with your potential lawyer about the unique details associated with your charges.

What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Criminal Defense Lawyer in California?

The difference between a criminal lawyer and a criminal defense lawyer in California is often misunderstood. A criminal lawyer is a label that applies to any lawyer involved in the criminal court system, including a prosecutor. Criminal defense lawyers, however, function in direct opposition to prosecutors, as their role is to defend those who have been accused of a crime.

Is It Worthwhile to Hire a Felony Crime Defense Lawyer in California?

It is worthwhile to hire a felony crime defense lawyer in California. Your lawyer can employ legal strategies, such as challenging potential constitutional violations, asserting legal defenses like self-defense or insanity, arguing insufficient evidence, and negotiating a favorable plea deal. With the success of your case depending on the presentation of your case, it is always recommended to utilize the knowledge and experience of an attorney.

Get More Information Today

Contact Eric Alan Berg & Associates today to schedule a consultation and get the advocacy you need and the help you deserve.

Shasta County Criminal Defense Law Resource:

• How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help with Serious Felony Charges in Shasta County?