Felony Defense Attorney in San Antonio

Aggressive Representation for Felony Crimes

If you are facing a felony charges, then you have been accused of a serious crime. The maximum sentence for a felony is a $10,000 fine and life imprisonment, with possible additional penalties such as the loss of your licenses or certifications, your right to vote, and your gun privileges.

If you have been blamed for a crime that classifies as a felony, then it is imperative that you contact a San Antonio criminal defense lawyer from The Law Office of John J. Fox. They can provide you with effective legal defense strategies that can help you avoid consequences.

Types of Felonies in Texas

In Texas, there are five different types of felonies:

• Capital felonies
• First-degree felonies
• Second-degree felonies
• Third-degree felonies
• State jail felonies

What are the penalties of my crime?

Penalties for State Jail Felonies

Those convicted will incur penalties of up to two years in state jail, a fine of up to $10,000, and a possibility of community supervision. A state jail felony is the least serious, being for persons who allegedly carried out offenses like burglary, animal cruelty, DWI with a child passenger, forgery, improper photography, or drug possession of less than a gram.

Penalties for third-degree Felonies

For those accused of a third-degree felony, penalties could include two to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 with possible community supervision. Crimes like a third DWI, indecent exposure to a child, stalking, intoxication assault, and tampering with the evidence would be tried as a third-degree felony.

Penalties for Second-degree Felonies

The penalties for a second-degree felony can increase by up to twenty years in prison. Offenses for this type of felony could be manslaughter, theft, trafficking of persons, bigamy, arson, indecent contact with a child, among others.

Penalties for First-degree Felonies

The next level up, a first-degree felony, would be for crimes like aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, injury to a child, arson of a habitation, and attempted murder. If convicted, the accused person could face life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000, and community supervision.

Penalties for Capital Felonies

A capital felony is the most serious and carries the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole. To earn a capital felony, the offender must have committed a crime such as homicide, first-degree murder, or armed violence that resulted in a death.

How is an accused person sentenced?

There are three ways that a defendant could be sentenced to felony penalties. The defense team could make a plea deal with the prosecution if they have a strong case against the defendant. A plea deal means that the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser crime with softer penalties, which a judge may or may not accept. If the judge does not make the plea deal, then the defendant can rescind their guilty plea and plead no contest or not guilty.

If the case ends up going to trial, then the jury will decide the verdict after the defendant has presented evidence that helps their case or has provided character witnesses. If there is no plea agreement or jury recommendation, then the judge will sentence the defendant. The judge will first order a pre-sentence investigation which gives a record of your criminal history, the events surrounding the crime, and the state's recommendations. During this time, the defense team will have a chance to show evidence and plead for leniency. The judge will then give a verdict. If the defendant does not like the verdict, then they may be able to appeal.

A San Antonio criminal defense lawyer can help with your felony charge!

Since the penalties for a felony are life-altering, it is imperative that those who have been accused of such crimes contact the experienced legal defense team from The Law Office of John J. Fox. A qualified attorney from our firm will take the time to thoroughly research your case and personally inform you of their recommendation and future steps.

Understanding Felony Defense in San Antonio: Local Insights

San Antonio's rich history and vibrant community make it a unique place to live and work. However, like any large city, it faces its share of legal challenges. If you find yourself accused of a felony in San Antonio, it's crucial to understand the local legal landscape and resources available to you.

The Bexar County Courthouse serves San Antonio residents, a key institution in the local judicial system. The courthouse handles a wide range of cases, including serious felony charges. Navigating the complexities of the legal system here can be daunting, especially when facing severe penalties that could impact your life permanently.

One common pain point for those accused of felonies in San Antonio is the potential for harsh sentencing. The local community is well aware of the stringent penalties for felony convictions, including significant prison time, hefty fines, and the loss of essential civil rights. This is why having a knowledgeable defense team that understands the intricacies of the Bexar County legal system is vital.

Another challenge is the impact of a felony charge on your personal and professional life. San Antonio has numerous military personnel and government employees, many of whom hold security clearances. A felony conviction can jeopardize these clearances, leading to job loss and financial instability. The Law Office of John J. Fox is well-versed in addressing these specific concerns and can help mitigate the potential fallout.

Moreover, San Antonio's diverse population means that language barriers and cultural differences can sometimes complicate legal proceedings. Our team is committed to providing clear, accessible legal guidance to all clients, ensuring you fully understand your rights and options.

By leveraging local knowledge and resources, The Law Office of John J. Fox aims to provide a robust defense tailored to the unique needs of San Antonio residents. Whether you're dealing with the Bexar County District Attorney's Office or seeking support from local advocacy groups, we are here to guide you every step.

Don't face these challenges alone. Contact a San Antonio criminal defense attorney from our legal team to ensure your rights are properly protected. Call us now for your free evaluation!