Felony Defense Lawyers
serving clients in Henderson, Las Vegas and other Clark County, NV citiesFacing a felony charge is a daunting and life-changing ordeal because your future hangs in the balance, with the possibility of a life sentence or, worse, the death penalty.
You need to move quickly to retain a felony defense lawyer to protect your constitutional rights and freedom.
Smith Legal Group represents defendants throughout Clark County who are facing allegations of any type of felony offense. If your criminal case is particularly complex and severe, we can provide a higher level of legal expertise and additional resources to mount an effective defense.
Call (702) 410-5001 for a free consultation with one of our seasoned felony defense lawyers, who can provide aggressive legal representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Types of crimes that can be felonies in Nevada
In Nevada, most crimes are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies. Some offenses, such as drug crimes, can be can be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies depending on the circumstances.
Felony penalties are more severe than misdemeanors, as they not only entail hefty prison sentences and substantial fines but also remain on your record permanently.
Nevada has “habitual offender” statues that allow for enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders, though they may not necessarily follow the strict “three strikes law” found in other states.
Felonies encompass a diverse range of serious or violent offenses, ranging from Category A (the most serious) to Category E (the least serious). Below are examples of felony offenses.
What to expect after being arrested on a felony charge
When facing felony charges in Nevada, you will typically appear before a local magistrate judge or justice of the peace within three days. It’s crucial to have legal representation present to manage all aspects of the legal process on your behalf.
During this initial hearing, known as an arraignment, the prosecutor will declare the charges they are filing against you. You will receive a copy of the complaint outlining these charges during this hearing.
Upon receiving the complaint, your defense team should immediately begin working on your case. Their primary goal should be to ensure that your rights are protected and that they advocate for the most lenient sentence available. They should thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest charges and develop a strategic defense tailored to your specific situation.
After the arraignment, several steps may occur in the legal process, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Whatever steps are taken, your lawyer should keep you informed about developments in your case and provide guidance on the best course of action.