The California criminal justice system divides offenses into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Although misdemeanors are more common than felonies, felonies are far more consequential.
Authorities classify a vast number of criminal charges as felonies; however, some are more common than others. Today, Schweitzer and Davidian will discuss some of the most common categories of felony charges people commit in California.
Drug Crimes
While recent changes to state laws move some drug crimes from felonies to misdemeanors, many offenses are still felonies. For example, the sale of a personal amount of drugs can result in imprisonment of two, three, or four years for a first-time conviction.
Additionally, anyone caught transporting (move for selling) drugs into California will face felony charges. If prosecutors convict someone of transporting drugs into California, he or she could face three, four, or five years in prison.
If someone sells drugs to a minor or uses a minor to transport drugs, he or she could face three, six, or nine years in state prison. Additionally, transactions that occur in certain public places (swimming pool, child care facility, etc.) could result in additional penalties for sellers and buyers.
Violent Crimes
Not all violent crimes are felonies, but many felony offenses are violent in nature.
Examples of Violent Felonies:
- Murder;
- Voluntary manslaughter;
- Mayhem;
- Rape;
- Sodomy by force;
- Violence;
- Duress;
- Menace;
- The threat of great bodily injury, or fear of immediate and unlawful bodily injury;
- Any crime in which a defendant personally inflicts great bodily injury on any person;
- Attempted murder;
- Assault with intent to commit rape or robbery;
- Assault with a deadly weapon or instrument on a peace officer;
- Assault with a deadly weapon by an inmate;
- Exploding a destructive device or any explosive with intent to injure;
- Exploding a destructive device or any explosive causing bodily injury;
- Exploding a destructive device or any explosive with intent to murder.
- Depending on the circumstances, carjacking is another violent crime that can be a felony offense.
Prosecutors often seek harsh penalties for violent felony offenders because they believe the accused are dangers to society. However, an experienced violent crime attorney can defend the accused from unfair treatment based on preconceived notions.
A strong defense is possible with the right representation.
Certain Drunk Driving Offenses
While a simple driving under the influence (DUI) charge is a misdemeanor offense in California, DUIs can become felonies when alleged offenders have multiple prior convictions. For example, any subsequent DUI offense is a felony when a person has three or more prior DUI convictions within ten years of the lastest DUI arrest.
Additionally, certain circumstances can turn a first-time misdemeanor DUI charge into a felony offense. For example, if a driver seriously injures or kills another person as a result of drunk driving, he or she could face felony charges.
Need Help Fighting Felony Charges?
As you can see, some felony charges are more common than others. However, regardless of the specific allegations in question, it’s always a good idea to talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney about felony arrests.
If you or a loved one is facing a felony charge in California, do not wait to contact an experienced Fresno criminal defense attorney. An attorney can look at the facts of the case and determine the best course of action for your defense.
Schweitzer & Davidian is an aggressive firm that fights to get our clients’ criminal charges reduced or dismissed. We boast a tremendous record of success in defending people against all kinds of criminal charges.
Looking for representation that makes a difference? Call (559) 206-2322 now for a free consultation for your case!