Felony

Fresno Felony Defense Lawyer – KMH Law Firm

Overview

Experienced Defense Against Serious Felony Charges in California

Felony charges are serious offenses that can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and lasting consequences on your record. At KMH Law Firm, we provide skilled and determined defense to protect the rights of individuals facing felony charges in Fresno and surrounding areas.

What is a Felony in California?

In California, a felony is a criminal offense that carries harsher penalties than a misdemeanor. Felony convictions can lead to prison time, probation, and other significant penalties. California classifies felonies by their severity, with the possibility of “wobblers”—offenses that may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the case details and prior criminal record.

Types of Felonies We Defend

KMH Law Firm represents clients facing various felony charges, including:

Violent Crimes: Serious offenses such as assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, and manslaughter are considered violent felonies. These charges carry some of the harshest penalties in California’s legal system.
Drug-Related Felonies: Possession with intent to distribute, large-scale trafficking, and manufacturing illegal substances are felony offenses, often carrying mandatory minimum sentences.
Theft and Property Crimes: Felony theft includes grand larceny, burglary, and embezzlement, especially when large sums or valuable property are involved.
White-Collar Crimes: Fraud, identity theft, money laundering, and other financial crimes are considered felonies if they involve significant financial losses or impact multiple victims.
Sex Crimes: Crimes such as sexual assault, rape, and child exploitation are severe felonies with long-lasting penalties, including possible registration as a sex offender.
Firearm and Weapon Offenses: Unlawful possession, trafficking, or use of firearms can lead to felony charges, especially when combined with other crimes or if prior convictions exist.

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Potential Penalties for Felonies in California

Penalties for felonies in California are severe and vary depending on the nature of the crime, prior criminal history, and specific circumstances. Common penalties include:

Prison Time: Felony convictions often result in sentences in state prison, with some violent or serious felonies leading to life sentences.
Heavy Fines: Convicted individuals may face substantial fines, especially for white-collar or drug-related offenses.
Probation: Some felonies may result in probation instead of prison time, often with strict conditions and mandatory supervision.
“Three Strikes” Law: California’s “three strikes” law increases penalties significantly for repeat offenders, with the third serious or violent felony often resulting in a life sentence.
Permanent Criminal Record: A felony conviction creates a criminal record that can impact employment, housing, and eligibility for certain licenses or benefits.

Common Defense Strategies for Felony Charges

Defending against felony charges requires a strategic and tailored approach. KMH Law Firm employs a variety of defense strategies, including:

Challenging the Evidence: We carefully examine evidence, questioning its accuracy, legality, and relevance. If evidence was obtained unlawfully, we seek to have it suppressed.
Arguing Lack of Intent: Many felonies require intent to harm or deceive. We argue lack of intent when the prosecution cannot prove that the accused acted with criminal purpose.
Mistaken Identity: In cases involving eyewitness testimony, mistaken identity is a frequent issue. We challenge witness statements and seek additional evidence to verify the true perpetrator.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others: For violent felonies, we may argue that the defendant acted in self-defense or in defense of another, particularly when immediate harm was threatened.
Insanity or Mental Health Defense: In some cases, we work with mental health professionals to argue diminished capacity or insanity if the defendant was not mentally capable of understanding their actions.

The Impact of a Felony Conviction

Felony convictions have serious and long-lasting impacts on a person’s life beyond legal penalties. They can affect:

Employment Opportunities: Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony conviction may limit job prospects, especially in specific fields.
Housing: Felonies can make finding housing challenging, as landlords often review criminal records.
Professional Licenses: Certain felony convictions can disqualify individuals from holding professional licenses, impacting careers in fields such as healthcare, law, and finance.
Voting Rights: Felony convictions may affect voting rights, though these rights can sometimes be restored after completing a sentence.

KMH Law Firm is committed to defending your rights and minimizing these consequences, seeking the best possible outcome for your future.

Why Choose KMH Law Firm for Felony Defense

Choosing a dedicated felony defense attorney can make a significant difference. Here’s why KMH Law Firm is your best choice:

In-Depth Knowledge of California Felony Laws: Our attorneys are experienced in California’s felony statutes, sentencing guidelines, and procedures, providing a knowledgeable and effective defense.
Successful Track Record in Felony Cases: We have a history of achieving favorable outcomes, including charge reductions, dismissals, and acquittals for clients facing serious felony charges.
Personalized Defense Strategies: We tailor our approach to each case, taking into account your goals and the specific facts to create a strong and individualized defense.
Client-Centered Approach: At KMH Law Firm, we prioritize transparency, keeping you informed and involved in every step of your defense process

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Defense

What should I do if I’m charged with a felony in California?

If you’re facing a felony charge, contact KMH Law Firm immediately. Avoid discussing your case with authorities until you have legal representation, as anything you say can be used against you.

Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?

Yes, some felonies are “wobblers,” meaning they can be reduced to misdemeanors based on the case details, your criminal history, and the defense strategy. Our attorneys work to reduce charges whenever possible.

What is California’s “three strikes” law?

The “three strikes” law imposes harsher penalties on repeat offenders. A third conviction for a serious or violent felony often results in a life sentence. Our firm provides aggressive defense to prevent strikes and minimize sentencing.

Contact KMH Law Firm for Skilled Felony Defense

Address

2014 Tulare Street, Ste 527, Fresno, CA 93721

Phone

559-273-5847

Kojomoorelaw@gmail.com

Related Legal Resources

California’s Three Strikes Law Explained: Understand how the three strikes law affects felony sentencing.
Difference Between Felony and Misdemeanor Charges: Learn about key distinctions in penalties and legal implications.
How to Expunge a Felony Conviction: Explore options for clearing your criminal record and restoring rights.