If you are facing felony charges in Indiana, it is important to understand what to expect throughout the criminal justice process. Being charged with a felony can be a very intimidating and frightening experience, so having knowledge of the legal process ahead of time can help ease your anxiety and give you an idea of what lies ahead. A criminal defense lawyer will provide invaluable assistance as you navigate through this difficult situation. With their guidance and expertise, they will strive to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some key aspects of dealing with felony charges in Indiana – from initial arrest all the way through sentencing and appeals if necessary.
What is a Felony?
A felony is a serious crime that can result in severe consequences for those convicted. Some examples of felonies include murder, burglary, fraud, and drug trafficking. Felonies are distinguished from misdemeanors by their severity and potential for longer prison sentences and significantly higher fines.
In addition to these legal penalties, felony convictions can have a long-lasting impact on an individual’s personal and professional life, including the loss of voting rights, limited job opportunities, and restrictions on accessing certain types of government assistance. Understanding what constitutes a felony and its implications is crucial in avoiding legal trouble and safeguarding your future.
Procedures for Felony Criminal Charges
The Arrest and Initial Charges
If you have been charged with a felony in Indiana, you will likely be arrested. During this time, it is important to stay calm and remain silent – anything you say can and will be used against you in court. After the arrest, an initial hearing will be held where the judge will determine the formal charges placed against you. At this point, your criminal defense lawyer will begin to assess your case and develop a legal strategy for defending you.
Plea Bargain or Trial
At some point during the legal process, your criminal defense attorney may present a plea bargain as an option for resolving your case outside of trial. If accepted by both parties involved, this agreement will require you to plead guilty in exchange for a reduced sentence or lesser charges. However, if no plea bargain is reached, your case will proceed to trial. During this portion of the process, your attorney will present evidence and witnesses on your behalf to prove your innocence.
Sentencing
If found guilty or after a plea bargain has been accepted, sentencing will be determined by the judge. Depending on the severity of the crime, this could involve jail time, fines, probation restrictions or any combination thereof. Your criminal defense lawyer can help explain all these possible outcomes prior to sentencing.
Appeal
In some cases where guilt was established at trial or through a plea agreement, an appeal may be filed in an attempt to reduce the sentence or overturn the conviction altogether. Your criminal defense lawyer can advise you on what steps should be taken if such a situation arises.
Act Fast and Hire a Felony Crime Lawyer
If you have been charged with a felony in Indiana, it is important to understand the legal process that lies ahead and ensure that your rights remain protected at all times. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side will make this difficult experience much easier to navigate and provide invaluable assistance throughout the entire process. If you find yourself facing felony charges in Indiana, contact a qualified legal professional today for more information about defending your rights and moving forward.
Are you searching for a defense lawyer who can represent you in your felony case? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned felony defense criminal lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our criminal attorneys will get you the best possible outcome to your criminal case!
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