Fort Bend County Felony Crimes Attorney

Experienced Felony Defense Lawyer in the Greater Houston Area 

A felony charge in Fort Bend County, Texas, can have life-altering consequences.  Don't face this challenge alone.  At The Sims Law Firm, PLLC, our skilled felony lawyers in Fort Bend County understand the severity of these cases and are committed to fighting aggressively on your behalf.  We possess in-depth knowledge of Texas criminal law and extensive experience navigating the Fort Bend County court system. Our approach ensures we stay ahead of the intricacies unique to felony cases, utilizing the most current and viable defense strategies. 

Let us guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome as your felony criminal defense lawyer in Fort Bend County. Our personalized approach takes into account all aspects of your situation. This ensures no stone is left unturned and every possible angle is explored to strengthen your defense.

Are you facing a felony charge in Texas? Call The Sims Law Firm, PLLC today at (713) 766-1445 or contact us online to meet with our felony defense attorney in Fort Bend County! 

First Degree Felony in Texas

A first degree felony is an extremely serious allegation that carries a penalty range from 5 years to life in prison, a fine of no less than $10,000. These crimes are treated with utmost seriousness and can dramatically alter a person's future, which makes it all the more important to build a robust defense strategy with an experienced felony attorney in Fort Bend County. 

To be charged with a first-degree felony, a person has been accused of comitting:

• aggravated assault of a public servant;
• aggravated kidnapping;
• aggravated robbery;
• aggravated sexual assault;
• attempted murder;
• arson of a residence;
• burglary with intent to commit a felony;
• inducing serious harm to a child, elderly person, or disabled person;
• escaping from police custody (if bodily injury occurs);
• murder;
• solicitation of murder;
• sex trafficking of a person under the age of 14;

Second Degree Felony in Texas

The penalties for a second degree felony are 2 to 20 years in prison, a possible fine of no more than $10,000, and possible community supervision.

To be charged with a second degree felony, a person has been accused of committing:

• aggravated assault;
• arson;
• bigamy;
• bribery;
• evasion of arrest;
• improper relationship between teacher and student;
• indecent contact with a child;
• manslaughter;
• solicitation of a minor under the age of 14;
• possession of 50 to 2,000 pounds of marijuana; 
• robbery;
• sexual assault;
• stalking (second offense or more);
• trafficking of a person over the age of 14;

Third Degree Felony in Texas

The penalties for a third degree felony are 2 to 10 years in prison, a possible fine of no more than $10,000, and possible community supervision. Though less severe than higher degrees, these felonies still represent substantial crime with serious repercussions. 

To be charged with a third degree felony, a person has been accused of committed:

• aggravated perjury;
• jumping bail to avoid a felony arrest;
• use of a deadly weapon;
• escape from custody resulting in a felony arrest;
• indecent exposure to a minor;
• intoxication-assisted assault;
• possession of a firearm by a convicted felon;
• retaliation;
• stalking;
• DWI (third offense);
• evidence tampering;
• violation of a protective order (third offense);

Additional Factors in Felony Sentencing

Factors the government considers when making a sentencing recommendation to a judge or jury include:

• Whether damage created by the offense resulted in serious injury or death, which significantly influences the severity of the charges and potential penalties;
• Whether the crime targeted children or the elderly, as these are considered particularly heinous offenses;
• Whether the community and court system’s attitude toward the specific crime influences sentencing, reflecting societal values;
• Whether the alleged offender has prior convictions, indicating a pattern of behavior that could impact sentencing;
• Whether the alleged offender is currently on parole or probation, which could lead to more severe consequences;
• Whether the alleged offender used a deadly weapon while committing the crime, often resulting in enhanced charges and penalties.

An alleged offender may also be held civilly liable to any victims of their crime in a separate lawsuit. For example, an offender could be required to pay a victim for any physical injuries or discomfort that resulted in out-of-pocket medical expenses, reimbursement for therapy expenses, or compensation for lost wages.

FAQs About Felony Defense in Fort Bend County

How Can a Felony Charge Impact My Life in Fort Bend County?

A felony charge can severely impact various aspects of your life, including employment, housing, and personal relationships. Convictions may lead to incarceration, and even charges that don't result in a conviction can be damaging due to public records. The stigma associated with felony charges can affect credibility and community standing, making it imperative to seek competent legal defense from a felony attorney in Fort Bend County as early as possible to manage these possible repercussions effectively.

What Should I Do If I'm Arrested for a Felony in Fort Bend County?

Upon arrest, the immediate step is to remain silent and request legal representation from a felony criminal defense attorney in Fort Bend County without delay. Engaging a knowledgeable felony defense lawyer can provide guidance through interrogation and help craft a defense strategy promptly. Understanding your rights during the arrest process and maintaining composure can significantly influence the journey toward legal resolution.

Why Is It Important to Have a Local Felony Defense Attorney?

Hiring a local felony defense attorney brings the advantage of familiarity with Fort Bend County’s legal system, key prosecutors, and judges. Local attorneys can leverage this insight to anticipate procedural tendencies and tailor defense strategies accordingly, potentially improving the handling of legal matters efficiently. Moreover, a local presence ensures accessibility and immediate response to evolving legal circumstances.

What Are the Penalties for a State Jail Felony?

The penalties for a state jail felony are between 6 -24 months in a state jail facility and up to a $10,000.00 fine. These felonies often involve non-violent offenses with specific sentencing guidelines allowing for rehabilitation efforts. 

Can a Felony Be Dropped in Texas?

Yes, a felony charge in Texas can be dropped under certain circumstances. Here are some common reasons:

• Lack of evidence: The charges may be dismissed if the prosecution doesn't have enough evidence to prove your guilt, highlighting the importance of thorough defense investigation.
• Procedural errors: If law enforcement or prosecutors made mistakes during your arrest or investigation, your felony attorney can argue for dismissal due to violations of your constitutional rights. It's crucial to always scrutinize adherence to procedural correctness.
• Successful completion of pre-trial programs: Completing programs like drug court or mental health treatment may lead to dropped or reduced charges, promoting rehabilitation over punishment.

Remember: Every case is unique. For specific advice on your situation, consult a Fort Bend County felony defense attorney. Timely legal consultation plays a vital role in crafting an effective defense strategy.

Understanding the Legal Process for Felony Crimes

Facing felony charges can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. It's important to understand the legal process and your rights when dealing with felony crimes. Our experienced felony lawyer in Fort Bend County can guide you through the legal process and provide the defense you need. We don't want to leave you with uncertainty; we help clarify the often complex legal pathways relevant to your circumstances. 

Key aspects of the legal process for felony crimes include:

• Arrest and booking
• Arraignment and plea bargaining
• Pre-trial motions and hearings
• Trial and sentencing
• Appeals and post-conviction relief

By understanding the steps involved in the legal process, you can make informed decisions and work with our legal team to build a strong defense strategy. Don't hesitate to reach out to The Sims Law Firm, PLLC for proven legal representation in felony crime cases.

Reach Out to Our Felony Lawyer in Fort Bend County Today

Don't let a felony charge control your future. At The Sims Law Firm, PLLC, our tenacious Fort Bend County felony crime attorneys will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom. Our felony defense firm has a proven track record of successfully navigating complex criminal cases, illustrating our in-depth involvement and persistent dedication to client representation. We are here to stand by your side throughout this challenging time and fight for the justice you deserve.

Contact The Sims Law Firm, PLLC online or call (713) 766-1445 today to schedule a FREE consultation with an experienced felony attorney in Fort Bend County!