Orleans Parish Felony Lawyer

Orleans Parish Felony Attorney

When faced with felony charges, it is strongly advised that you consult a skilled Orleans Parish felony lawyer sooner rather than later. Whether this is your first criminal charge or you have a criminal history, you should take early action to give yourself the strongest chance of a favorable outcome. An experienced Orleans Parish criminal defense lawyer can build a case on your behalf while protecting your rights. They can help you be treated fairly throughout the process.

Types of Felony Crimes Our Firm Handles

In fiscal year 2023, more than 64,000 individuals were sentenced for a criminal offense nationwide. In Louisiana that year, 767 individuals were sentenced for an unlawful crime, including various felony offenses. Of these cases, 32.8 percent involved drug crimes.

Crimes generally fall into two categories, misdemeanors and felonies. A felony charge is considered more severe than a misdemeanor. Penalties for a felony conviction are equally as serious, including long prison sentences, steep fines, and other enduring consequences.

These are some of the felony offenses we regularly help with at The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox:

• Drug violations. Not all drug crimes are considered felony offenses. Typically, the amount of drugs found must be over a certain threshold for a charge to be at the felony level. In addition to certain cases of possession and distribution, other felony drug charges include manufacturing or growing substances.
• Violent crimes, including aggravated assault, kidnapping, manslaughter, and murder
• Property offenses, such as burglary, grand larceny, and arson
• Sex crimes, including rape and sexual assault
• DUI/DWI. Driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances can be treated as a felony if someone was physically harmed in an accident, the defendant’s blood alcohol content was extremely high, or if there was a minor in the car at the time.
• Juvenile cases. In cases where a juvenile is facing a felony charge, it is critical to have experienced legal counsel.

Why You Should Hire a Felony Lawyer

It is highly advised that you hire a felony lawyer when faced with accusations as serious as a felony charge. A qualified and skilled Orleans Parish felony attorney, such as the lead professional at The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox, can lend their legal experience and familiarity with the criminal justice system to the benefit of your case.

Louisiana felony laws can be intimidating and complex, but an attorney’s guidance can make the process easier to manage. Mr. Cox was a former prosecutor at the Jefferson Parish Court and has over 29 years of experience working in parish courts across Louisiana, so he is familiar with the expectations and procedures involved.

A felony case in Orleans Parish is most likely to be processed by the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, which is located at 2700 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119. Depending on the details of your case, including where the alleged crime took place, the legal venue that oversees the proceedings can vary. Be sure to verify with your defense attorney.

FAQs

Can You Defend Against a Felony Charge in Louisiana?

You can defend against a felony charge in Louisiana, although your strongest chances of effectively doing so are with the guidance of an experienced defense attorney. After reviewing your case, your lawyer can determine which defense strategies may be most advantageous given the circumstances.

Some common defense approaches against a felony crime include providing an alibi, asserting that a violent offense was done in self-defense, and that the defendant wasn’t able to think critically due to mental illness or disability.

What Is the Usual Punishment for a First-Time Felony?

There is no standard punishment for a first-time felony because each case is so different. Sentencing for a felony depends on the type and severity of the crime, as well as other extenuating circumstances.

For example, the punishment for a first-time murder conviction may include life imprisonment with or without parole or even the death penalty. This is more severe than penalties for first-time arson, which vary depending on the risk posed by the act and the amount of damage caused.

What Felonies Cannot Be Expunged in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, some felonies are eligible for expungement while others are not. Some felonies that cannot be expunged are sex crimes and violent offenses. An expungement is when a felony on your record is sealed from public view, preventing anyone who runs a background check from seeing records related to the crime. This can help to improve your future by preventing potential employers or landlords from seeing the felony. Your lawyer can confirm whether you may be eligible for expungement.

Can a Felony Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor Charge?

Yes, a felony charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor, but it’s never guaranteed. Your strongest chances of getting the charges reduced are with the guidance of an experienced defense attorney.

Whether a felony can be reduced depends on the nature of the alleged crime, your prior criminal history, and how strong the available evidence is. If the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to bring the felony charges or the case forward, the charges may be reduced or dropped.

What Are My Rights After a Felony Accusation?

If you’ve been accused of a felony, you have the right to remain silent about any details regarding the alleged offense. You also have the right to request access to an attorney before answering any questions from law enforcement. Your rights also include the right to a fair trial and the right to remain informed of the details of the charges against you.

Speak with a Dedicated Felony Defense Lawyer

At The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox, we are committed to providing tailored legal counsel and high-quality representation to each of our clients, no matter the circumstances. We are prepared to guide you through every step of the criminal justice process, offering insight and advocacy on your behalf. Reach out to our team today to schedule a consultation where we can answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you navigate the next step.