Felony Crimes

Fresno Felony Defense Attorney

Aggressively Defending Those Accused of Felonies in Fresno County and Madera County

When you are arrested and charged with a felony, it is crucial to hire a criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal process. To obtain the best possible outcome, you need someone in your corner who understands the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. At the Law Office of Martin H. Gamulin, we have extensive experience handling all types of felony cases and are prepared to mount a strong defense on your behalf.

Call (559) 934-5405 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation with our lawyer.

What Is a Felony?

A felony is a serious criminal offense that is punishable by more than one year in state prison, up to life in prison, or the death penalty. In addition, a felony conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can make it difficult to obtain employment, housing, professional licenses, and more. You may also lose your right to vote and own firearms if you are convicted of a felony. Felony convictions can also cause strain on personal relationships and damage your reputation in the community.

What Are the Factors Influencing a Felony Charge?

In many cases, the district attorney has discretion when it comes to charging a criminal offense as either a misdemeanor or a felony. This means that, depending on the circumstances of the case and the defendant’s criminal history, the prosecutor can decide whether to charge a crime as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Some of the factors that can influence whether a crime is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony include:

The specific facts of the case
The severity of the victim’s injuries
The defendant’s criminal record
The defendant’s age

In certain cases, the law requires that a crime be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. For example, in California, DUI offenses can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. If the defendant has prior DUI convictions on their record, they will likely face felony DUI charges for any subsequent offenses. Similarly, certain types of theft crimes are known as “wobblers” because they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The specific charge will depend on the value of the property involved and the defendant’s criminal record.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the consequences of a felony conviction?

A felony conviction can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment for more than a year, potentially life in prison, or even the death penalty. Beyond incarceration, a felony conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can hinder your ability to secure employment, housing, and professional licenses. Additionally, you may lose certain civil rights, such as the right to vote and the right to own firearms. The repercussions extend to personal relationships and community standing, often causing lasting strain and reputational damage.

What should I do if I'm charged with a felony?

If you're charged with a felony, it's imperative to contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. An attorney can advise you on your rights, help prevent self-incrimination, and begin crafting a defense strategy tailored to your case. Early legal intervention is key to protecting your interests and can influence the course of your case, potentially leading to reduced charges or even a dismissal.

Can a felony charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Fresno?

In some cases, a felony charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances of the offense and your criminal history. Factors such as the severity of the crime, the evidence against you, and your conduct since the charge can influence the possibility of charge reduction. An experienced Fresno felony defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors and argue for lesser charges, especially if it's your first offense or if there are mitigating factors.

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What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Felony in California?

The statute of limitations is the time limit the state has to file criminal charges against a person. California's statute of limitations for most violent felony crimes is six years. This means that the state has six years from the date of the offense to file charges. However, there are several important exceptions to this rule. For example, there is no statute of limitations for murder and various other serious violent crimes, such as arson, rape, and kidnapping. This means that a person can be charged with murder at any time, no matter how much time has passed since the offense.

Some other examples of exceptions to the statute of limitations include:

If the defendant is not in California
If the defendant has a prior conviction
If the offense was committed against a minor

If any of these exceptions apply, the statute of limitations is “tolled,” or paused, until the exception no longer applies. Once the time limit expires, the state can no longer file charges against the defendant for that offense.

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How to Fight Felony Charges

If you are facing felony charges, you may be feeling overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what to do next. However, it is important to remember that you have rights. At The Law Office of Martin H. Gamulin, we are committed to helping you understand your rights and options and will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf. We can investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, interview witnesses, review police reports and other evidence, and develop a personalized defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. Our Fresno felony crimes attorney can help you fight the charges and work to obtain a favorable outcome.

There are several possible defenses to felony charges, including:

Insufficient evidence
Unlawful search and seizure
Violation of your Miranda rights
False accusations
Self-defense
Mistaken identity

Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty. It is the prosecution’s burden to prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Our experienced criminal defense attorney can help you build a strong defense, poke holes in the prosecution’s case, and fight to protect your rights and freedom.

Local Support and Resources for Felony Defense in Fresno and Madera Counties

Navigating a felony charge in Fresno County or Madera County can be daunting, but you don't have to face it alone. The Law Office of Martin H. Gamulin is deeply familiar with the local legal landscape and understands residents' unique challenges. We are well-versed in the procedures and protocols of the Fresno County Superior Court and the Madera County Superior Court, ensuring that your defense is tailored to the specific nuances of these jurisdictions.

Residents of Fresno and Madera counties often encounter significant hurdles when dealing with felony charges, such as the potential for long-term incarceration and the lasting impact on their personal and professional lives. The local community is also aware of the stringent measures taken by law enforcement agencies like the Fresno Police Department and the Madera County Sheriff's Office. These entities are known for their rigorous approach to criminal investigations, which can sometimes lead to overzealous charges.

Our firm understands the local pain points, such as the difficulty in securing employment post-conviction, the challenges in maintaining family relationships, and the social stigma that can follow a felony charge. We are committed to providing a robust defense that addresses these concerns head-on. By leveraging our knowledge of local resources, including community support programs and rehabilitation services, we aim to mitigate the impact of a felony charge on your life.

If you or a loved one faces a felony charge in Fresno or Madera County, don't hesitate to reach out. Our deep-rooted understanding of the local legal environment and our commitment to your defense can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Contact the Law Office of Martin H. Gamulin today to discuss your situation and explore your options.

Why Choose The Law Office of Martin H. Gamulin?

If you are facing felony charges, you need a criminal defense attorney who knows how to win. At The Law Office of Martin H. Gamulin, we have a proven track record of success and have helped numerous clients obtain favorable outcomes. We understand the serious and life-altering consequences of a felony conviction and will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf. Our Fresno felony crimes lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you make informed decisions every step of the way. We are available to answer your questions and address your concerns and will fight to protect your rights and freedom.

Call (559) 934-5405 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

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Personalized Legal Representation
Our attorneys will work closely with you to develop a legal strategy that is designed to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Proven Track Record of Success
Our team has secured numerous dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to protect the rights of our clients.
Experienced Representation
We've successfully defended clients against a wide range of criminal charges, including but not limited to dui charges, traffic infractions/violations, and family law services.
Flat-Fee Rate Options and Reasonable Retainers
We offer transparent and accessible legal services with flat-rate fee options and reasonable retainers, ensuring affordability and clarity for our clients.
Limited Scope Representation
We offer invaluable assistance with for clients who are seeking case by case representation in the Fresno and Madera areas.
Hablamos Español
Our team proudly offers services in Spanish to assist our Spanish-speaking community