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San Antonio Felony Defense Lawyer

Protecting Your Rights In and Out of the Courtroom

Being charged with any kind of crime can have devastating consequences. Felony offenses are some of the most serious offenses under the law. Depending on what you are charged with, you could face thousands of dollars in fines, probation time, and even a prison sentence. You need a criminal defense lawyer on your side to protect you from these criminal penalties during your case.

The Hicks Law Firm has experience handling both federal and state cases involving felony offenses. Our attorney can help you fight criminal charges and navigate your criminal case while protecting your rights. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face felony charges, and we are dedicated to getting you the best possible outcome.

To learn more information and receive a free 20-minute initial consultation, call 210-985-8330 today.

What Are the Most Common Felony Charges?

There are many kinds of felony charges you could face in Texas. In most cases, a felony charge involves a violent offense, a sexual offense, or a drug crime. Many misdemeanors can be elevated to felonies through aggravating factors like the use of a deadly weapon or bodily injury.

The most common felony charges include:

  • Assault with a deadly weapon
  • Aggravated assault
  • Burglary
  • Credit card abuse
  • Drug crimes
  • Evading arrest in a motor vehicle
  • Injury to a child
  • Intoxication assault
  • Evading arrest or detention
  • Rape or sex crimes
  • Criminal possession of a controlled substance
  • Stalking, especially in domestic violence cases
  • Arson
  • Manslaughter
  • Murder
  • Robbery
  • Weapons charges
  • Theft, fraud, and embezzlement
  • Identity theft
  • Gun crimes
  • Money laundering
  • Kidnapping

DWIs may also be elevated to felony charges if you have had multiple DWI convictions in the past. Similarly, if you were found driving under the influence and caused severe bodily injury or death to another person, you could be charged with a felony offense.

What Kinds of Felonies Are There in Texas?

Similar to misdemeanors, there are multiple different levels of felony offenses. The more serious the felony is, the more severe your penalties will be.

You may be charged with one of the following penalties in Texas:

Capital Felony

A capital felony is the most serious kind of felony you can face. Intentionally causing the death of another person is typically charged as a capital felony. If convicted, you could face life imprisonment or the death sentence.

First-Degree Felony

Burglary, aggravated robbery, and other similar offenses are typically classified as first-degree felonies. If you are convicted of a first-degree felony, you will face life in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

Second-Degree Felony

Second-degree felony charges include robbery, manslaughter, bribery, and aggravated assault. You could face two to 20 years in state prison and fines of $10,000 if you are convicted.

Third-Degree Felony

A third-offense DWI, intoxicated assault, and aggravated perjury are considered third-degree felonies. If convicted, you will face two to ten years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

State Jail Felony

State jail felonies are the least serious felonies you can be charged with. You could face up to $10,000 in fines and up to two years in state jail for a conviction. Theft of property, check forgery, and a DWI with a child as a passenger in the car are typically charged as state jail felonies.

What Are the Penalties for Repeat Felony Offenders?

Repeat felony offenders can face additional penalties for their crimes. Anyone previously convicted of at least one felony is labeled a repeat or habitual offender.

If this is your second or subsequent felony, you could face one of the following penalties:

  • If you are charged with a state jail felony and have been convicted of two state jail felonies, you will face a third-degree felony.
  • If you are charged with a third-degree felony and you have been convicted of a felony besides a state jail felony, you will be charged with a second-degree felony.
  • If you are charged with a second-degree felony and you have been convicted of any felony besides a state jail felony, you will face a first-degree felony.
  • If you are charged with a first-degree felony and you have been convicted of any felony besides a state jail felony, you will face a prison sentence of 15 to 99 years or life imprisonment.

Some federal criminal charges can elevate your felony offense to life imprisonment or a capital felony charge.

What Does a Felony Defense Lawyer Do?

Working with a felony defense lawyer is the best way to protect your rights throughout your entire case. Our law office will create a personalized legal defense strategy that’s unique to you, using your criminal history and your specific charges as a guiding force.

Our attorney will also do the following:

  • Gather evidence in your defense
  • Challenge evidence in the prosecution’s case
  • Negotiate for a plea deal, if possible
  • Represent you in court and during police interviews

Do You Need an Attorney for Felony Charges?

Felony charges are the most serious charges you can face under the law. Being convicted of a felony offense will lead to fines, probation, jail time, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. It is imperative that you seek assistance from an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your legal rights today.

The Hicks Law Firm is dedicated to representing clients around Texas. Whether this is your first offense or you already have a criminal history, we are confident we can help you. To learn more about our law firm and receive a free consultation, call 210-985-8330 today.