The laws that govern crime and punishment are wide-ranging and variable. Facing criminal charges often seems overwhelming. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony, the attorneys at Chew Law can guide you through the process and answer all of your questions along the way.
What is a felony?
Felonies are serious crimes that can result in state prison sentences and loss of employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Felonies include many crimes of violence, sex offenses, drunk driving, and more situations that cause injury or death, and fraud or theft of more than $400.
How does my criminal record factor in?
Past criminal convictions may result in stiffer sentences if you are found guilty of a felony. For example, you may face additional time behind bars if you are a felon in possession of a firearm or if you have committed prior crimes of the same nature.
What should I do if I am arrested for a felony?
If you are under arrest, it is best to comply with authorities so that you are not charged with additional crimes, such as resisting arrest. Exercise your constitutional rights by choosing not to answer any questions until you speak to your attorney.
How can you help me if I have been charged with a felony?
The attorneys at Chew Law Offices have a very successful record of defending their clients from serious felony charges. We know appearances can be deceiving, so we fully investigate each alleged crime, gather evidence in your favor, examine witnesses, and search for mitigating factors that may exonerate you.
What are the penalties for driving under the influence?
The penalties for a DUI conviction vary depending on your criminal history, the circumstances of your arrest and many other factors. They can range from probation, alcohol treatment or classes, jail or prison time. Your license may also be suspended or revoked.
How is someone convicted of DUI?
Being arrested for DUI doesn’t necessarily mean you will be found guilty, particularly if you have an experienced attorney who is familiar with current DUI law. To be convicted, prosecutors must prove you were driving a moving vehicle, the arresting officer had reasonable suspicion for detaining you, or a roadblock was set up in a constitutional manner. The state must also show there was probable cause to arrest you and that drinking impaired your driving, usually through a field sobriety test. Finally, if you were given a breath or chemical test, prosecutors must prove it was done properly on a well-maintained and accurate machine.
How can you help me if I have been charged with DUI or DWI?
Our goal is to help you move on with your life and put your arrest behind you. We will make sure prosecutors can prove every aspect of the case. We will obtain all police documents, video footage and witness information that may help you beat your DUI charge. If you choose to take your case to trial, we will fight to suppress evidence that was gathered illegally and bring expert witnesses who can testify on DUI testing procedure or other factors.
What are the penalties for misdemeanors?
Misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of a fine and less than one year in county jail. Punishments may include probation, community service, a short jail sentence, or one served on weekends. Common misdemeanors include petty theft, prostitution, public intoxication, vandalism, simple assault, drug possession, trespassing, disorderly conduct and reckless driving. Being convicted of a misdemeanor may affect your ability to hold certain professional licenses or obtain certain jobs.
How can you help me if I have been charged with a misdemeanor?
The attorneys at Chew Law have handled countless misdemeanors, securing not guilty verdicts or ensuring that charges are dropped or diverted. We are committed to gathering all evidence in your favor and investigating any mitigating circumstances that may have led to your arrest.