Felony Charges
Felony Crime Defense in Houston: Brazoria, Ft. Bend, Galveston, Harris & Montgomery Counties
Felonies are the highest level of criminal offenses in the Texas justice system. More serious than infractions and misdemeanors, felony charges are more likely to lead to arrest and incarceration in state or federal prison. Crimes are considered felonies if the conviction results in more than a year in jail. However, a successful legal defense of a felony charge can be potentially reduce the severity of a criminal sentence, including shortening or even eliminating jail time.
Repeat convictions can escalate a crime to a felony, and repeat felonies will result in more serious penalties. Felonies normally have longer statutes of limitations that misdemeanor offenses. If you’re convicted of a felony, you have a criminal record, which can make it difficult finding employment, housing, loans, and licenses. You can also lose your right to vote or own firearms.
Examples of Felonies
A variety of crimes can be considered either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances and severity of the crime. The following
- Drug trafficking
- Murder
- Theft
- Arson
- Child abuse
- Fraud
- Violent crimes
This is by no means an exhaustive list of felony crimes. As stated above, many crimes can be considered felonies comprised of their own sentencing guidelines and penalties.
Felony Penalties
In Texas, felony crimes are punished very severely because they consist of the most serious offenses. Felony crimes are placed into several classes, and each one has its own distinct punishments. Here are the types of felonies that are recognized in the state of Texas:
State jail felony
- 180 days to two years in a state jail
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Third-degree felony
- Two to 10 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Second-degree felony
- Two to 20 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
First-degree felony
- Five to 99 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Capital felony
- Life imprisonment or the death penalty
Negotiating a Deal
Some crimes in Texas are always prosecuted as felonies. On the other hand, some offenses can either be prosecuted as a felony or as a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances. These offenses are known as 1244 crimes. Prosecutors ultimately decide if 1244 crimes are tried as felonies or as misdemeanors. A competent criminal defense attorney can often mitigate the charges so that his client is charged with a misdemeanor instead of a felony.
If you have previously been found guilty of committing a felony crime, it is vitally important for you to successfully negotiate a felony charge. That is because a third conviction for the same felony offense may result in life imprisonment.
Charged with a felony? Call a Houston felony lawyer at (832) 752-5972
Contact a Felony Attorney Today
Houston attorney Greg Tsioros has a solid understanding of the Texas legal system because he started his career at the Harris County district attorney’s office. During his tenure as a prosecutor, he handled many felony crimes. Mr. Tsioros will use his diverse knowledge and experience to protect your rights.
If you or someone you know was recently arrested on felony accusations, give the Law Office of Greg Tsioros a call at (832) 752-5972. Mr. Tsioros will evaluate your case and give you a complimentary initial consultation.
