Felony Charges
Felony charges are the more serious offenses, and carry more serious penalties. For felonies, the penalties often go far beyond prison time or fines. You may lose important freedoms, including the right to carry a firearm, vote, or obtain certain professional licenses. In addition, having a felony conviction on your record makes you a “felon,” marking you not only as a criminal, but as a particularly bad criminal.
West Chester Felony Lawyer
With such serious consequences, you’ll want a representation with the experience it takes to fight against the charges. At Ciccarelli Law Offices, we are a team of dedicated West Chester criminal defense lawyers with more than 40 years of collective experience.
Having more than one lawyer and more than one idea of how to approach your case can make a big difference. Our dedicated criminal defense attorneys will fight to show the weaknesses and holes in the prosecution’s case against you. Call us today at (610) 692-8700 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your felony case.
We represent those facing felony charges throughout the Greater Philadelphia area, including Exton, Coatesville, Lancaster, Downingtown and Media. We are based in West Chester, with offices in Kennett Square, Malvern, Springfield, King of Prussia, Lancaster, Radnor and Plymouth Meeting. We serve Chester County, Montgomery County, Lancaster County, Delaware County and Philadelphia.
Information Center for Pennsylvania Felonies
Felony Categories Under Pennsylvania Law
Under 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 106, there are three classifications of felonies: first degree, second degree and third degree. First is the worst, and third degree has the least punitive penalties.
Each offense in the Pennsylvania Code lists the classification of the offense. Some common felonies include:
- Third Degree Felony: Insurance Fraud, Credit Card Fraud for more than $500, Robbery with no serious injury;
- Second Degree Felony: DUI – Aggravated Assault, Sexual Assault, Aggravated Assault with no serious bodily injury; and
- First Degree Felony: Rape, Kidnapping, Burglary of an Occupied Building, Aggravated Assault on a law enforcement officer.
Murder is also felony, but is graded above regular felonies.
Consequences of a Felony Conviction
Each felony has a different minimum prison sentence you will be subject to if convicted of a felony.
- For a felony of the third degree, the maximum prison sentence is seven years and the maximum fine is $15,000
- For a felony of the second degree, you could serve up to 10 years in prison and pay up to a $25,000 fine
- For a felony of the first degree, you could face up to 20 years in prison and a $50,000 fine
Additionally, certain other penalties come as a result of a felony conviction. If convicted of one of several felonies, including arson, robbery or aggravated assault, you are no longer allowed to possess a firearm until your rights are restored by the court. You will not be able to vote while incarcerated. For certain sexual offenses, you will be listed in the sex offender database. The Pennsylvania Constitution also prohibits any person convicted of an “infamous crime” from serving in public office, which has been interpreted to mean any felony conviction.
It’s important to remember that these are maximum punishments. Your West Chester criminal defense attorney can negotiate and advocate for a lower sentence. Some crimes, like drug trafficking, have mandatory minimum sentences. If convicted, you will face at least that minimum time in prison.
Fighting Felony Charges in Chester County
If you face felony charges, you are staring down potentially life-altering consequences. The best advice is to have qualified legal representation on your side. At Ciccarelli Law Offices, you will have a team of dedicated, skilled West Chester criminal defense lawyers on your side, representing you whether you are in Phoenixville, Pottstown, West Goshen or anywhere in the Philadelphia area. Call us today at Ciccarelli Law Offices to set up a consultation.