What is a Felony Lawyer

A felony lawyer is a criminal attorney who defends clients accused of a serious crime or felony. A felony is generally defined as a crime that is punishable by imprisonment for longer than a year. While crimes defined as felonies may vary from state to state, crimes that are typically considered as felonies include murder, rape, drug trafficking and arson. Aside from lengthy imprisonment and serious fines, being convicted may also cost you your right to vote, obtain a passport or hold an occupational license, even after you have been released from prison. You may also be liable for civil damages to the victim or their survivors, as well as being required to pay damages for medical expenses, emotional distress and lost income from work.

The responsibilities of a felony lawyer towards their client include investigating the facts of the case, evaluating the strength of the prosecution’s case, searching for evidence to support the client’s defense and crafting a strong defense strategy. The attorney will also make themselves available to consult with the client and keep them informed about the status of their defense, as well as clarifying any aspects of the case or defense the client may be unsure about.

One of the initial concerns of a felony lawyer is to avoid a criminal trial for their client. In line with this, they will meet with the prosecutor to present the defense’s case and try to secure a dismissal or negotiate a plea bargain, under which the client will plead guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for a reduced sentence. If the prosecutor does not agree to a plea bargain or dismissal, the case goes to trial during which the felony attorney will mount a defense for their client. Their purpose of the defense is to cast reasonable doubt on the prosecution’s case against the defendant to secure an acquittal. To do this, the lawyer must not only present a strong defense, but also cast doubt on the prosecution’s case. If the client is found guilty, the lawyer will then discuss appeal options with their client and file the appropriate papers with the appellate court.