Have You Been Convicted Of A Felony?
Some crimes carry such stigma that even being charged can lead to significant consequences. If you have been accused of a violent crime, drug offense, or a sex crime, your family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances may begin to immediately seeing you in a different light. Some may assume guilt before you have had a chance to defend yourself in court.
That is why your felony defense must begin immediately. At Wilhelm & Roemersma, we provide candid advice and give you the information you need to best protect yourself in a system that does not always have your best interest. From the outset of your case, we will be by your side, ensuring that your rights are protected in the face of serious allegations.
What Is Considered A Felony?
Crimes considered felonies under the law include but are not limited to:
- Drug trafficking
- Homicide
- Arson
- Kidnapping
- Sexual assault crimes
- Aggravated assault
New Jersey categories crimes by degree. There are four degrees of crimes, with the least serious categorized as a 4th degree crime and the most serious categorized as a 1st degree crime.
For example, a 1st degree crime includes homicide and robbery, whereas a 4th degree crime includes some assaults.
In Pennsylvania, felonies are categorized as follows:
- Felony of the 1st degree
- Felony of the 2nd degree
- Felony of the 3rd degree
A felony of the 1st degree is the most serious felony charge in Pennsylvania while a felony of the 3rd degree is the least serious.
For example, a 1st degree felony includes homicide, while a 3rd degree felony could be possession of child pornography.
What Are The Punishments For Committing A Felony Crime?
The punishment for commission of a felony depends upon number of factors including:
- A person’s prior criminal record;
- The nature of the felony;
- The circumstances of the offense;
- The interest of the victim; and
- Whether the person is open to rehabilitation
There are also sentencing guidelines for the sentencing court to consider. These sentencing guidelines provide a framework for the Court to determine an appropriate punishment for the type of crime.
It is imperative that any individual accused of a felony seek legal assistance immediately in order to ensure his or her rights are protected.
Can I Have My Record Expunged?
An expungement is the formal process by which a person petitions the Court to request an Order erasing or removing offenses from a criminal record. In certain circumstances, an entire record can be expunged; but in others, only a portion of the record can be erased.
Expungements are important because criminal records can significantly impact an individual’s ability to obtain employment or a professional/occupational license, pursue education, or apply for housing and government benefits.
The criminal defense attorneys at Wilhelm & Roemersma can assist you in pursuing the expungement of your felony offenses. We will help you understand your options, the different strategies you can pursue, and the potential outcomes surrounding the specifics of your case.
We Are Here To Defend Your Rights
Nothing is guaranteed, which is why you need an experienced attorney to defend your rights. Our attorneys will meet with you to discuss your situation, the best course of action, and what you can expect throughout the duration of your case.
Please call our main office at 908-454-3200 to schedule a free consultation, or you can reach us online with any questions you may have.