Seattle Criminal Defense Attorneys
Classifications of Crimes
Typically, crimes fall under three major categories, which are: minor charge, misdemeanor, and felony. These categories provide guidance to judges and juries, while assessing the options available to a defendant for rehabilitation and justice. Therefore, using this "sliding scale" the more serious a criminal charge is, the more severe the penalty will be upon conviction.
At McNeese & Trotsky, PLLC, your aggressive Seattle criminal defense lawyer can guide you, explain to you the classification of crimes, and create a unique defense which pertains to your specific situation in an attempt to minimize the punishment that you are facing.
Felony / Serious Crimes
People who have been convicted of felonies may have to endure serious repercussions for years, and possibly for the remainder of their lives. The punishments that convicted felons face can range from minor penalties, such as community service or probation, to much more severe penalties, like a jail or prison term and/or monetary fines. In the most extreme cases, a life sentence or death penalty may be imposed.
First degree murder, rape, and vehicular homicide are just a few crimes which are considered felonies in the United States. In Federal cases, and some State trials, a defendant may be entitled to a grand jury trial. Due to the seriousness of the consequences associated with a felony conviction, the Constitution has laid out certain protections to ensure that defendants receive a fair hearing for the crimes that they have been charged with. When a defendant is unable to retain counsel, the State will have counsel appointed to them.
Even after their sentence has been served, convicted felons may still encounter many obstacles, such as credit issues, loss of public benefits, firearm possession restrictions, and possibly the loss of some parental rights. These obstacles are encountered in addition to a variety of social stigmas, difficulty finding employment, and psychological problems which may result.
Misdemeanors / Mid-level Crimes
While punishments for misdemeanors are typically less severe than those for felonies, the consequences can still have a very negative impact on the convicted person's life. For example, if you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you may have to pay a monetary fine, surrender property, or even serve a prison term. Federal law does not guarantee defendants who have been charged with a misdemeanor the right to a grand jury trial. The proceedings involved in a misdemeanor trial are generally more relaxed than the procedures at a felony case.
If you are unable to retain counsel due to lack of funds, the State may provide you with assistance, but ONLY if you are facing a potential jail term. You are not guaranteed the right to a jury trial; that is dependant upon the State law and various circumstances of your particular case.
Infractions and Petty Offenses
Minor infraction and petty offenses include traffic tickets, lesser violations (such as violating a building fire ordinance) and citations (such as jaywalking). Certain petty offenses may not be considered "crimes," but they must be dealt with all the same to avoid legal problems and repercussions.
Remember that crime classifications vary by jurisdiction and that the information provided on this page is only general information, not legal advice. For more information, and to discuss your case with a skilled Bellevue criminal lawyer, contact McNeese & Trotsky, PLLC, today.
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.