Understanding a Felony: What You Need to Know and How to Protect Your Rights

1. Understanding a Felony: What You Need to Know and How to Protect Your Rights When you're facing a felony charge, your entire future is at stake. From hefty fines and prison time to the long-lasting effects on your job, housing, and civil rights, a felony conviction can alter the course of your life. That’s why if you or a loved one are accused of a felony in San Jose, you need experienced legal representation—fast. At Maureen F. Baldwin, Attorney at Law, we’re committed to fighting for your rights with professionalism, precision, and compassion. What Is a Felony? In California, a felony is the most serious type of criminal offense and is punishable by more than one year in state prison or, in extreme cases, life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Unlike misdemeanors, which are considered lesser offenses, felonies often involve significant harm or the threat of harm to individuals or society at large. Examples of felony offenses include: ● Murder ● Rape ● Robbery ● Grand theft ● Assault with a deadly weapon ● Drug trafficking ● Burglary ● Fraud and embezzlement Each of these crimes carries its own set of penalties, and the severity often depends on whether the accused has prior convictions, the circumstances surrounding the case, and whether anyone was injured or killed.

2. The Felony Court Process in San Jose Attorney Maureen Baldwin has decades of experience defending clients in felony cases across San Jose and the broader Santa Clara County area. Understanding the court process can help ease some of your anxiety and prepare you for what’s ahead. Here’s a step-by-step look at how a felony case typically progresses: 1. Arraignment This is the first court appearance where the defendant is informed of the charges and advised of their right to an attorney. Bail may also be addressed. 2. Attorney Appearance and Case File Review At the next court date, your attorney will formally take over your defense and request access to the police reports and evidence. 3. Investigation and Strategy Development Once the case file is received, your attorney will: ● Identify missing documents or evidence ● Consult with expert witnesses ● Conduct independent investigations ● Evaluate opportunities for dismissals, charge reductions, or plea deals 4. Preliminary Hearing This “mini-trial” allows the prosecution to present basic evidence to establish probable cause. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and challenge the strength of the case. 5. Post-Hearing Arraignment and Motions If the judge believes the case should go to trial, a new arraignment is scheduled. At this stage, your attorney may file legal motions to: ● Suppress unlawfully obtained evidence ● Dismiss charges ● Address any flaws in the prosecution’s case 6. Pretrial Conference

3. If there’s potential for a plea deal or resolution, both sides meet to negotiate. This can lead to reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. 7. Trial If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial. Trials can range from a few days to several months, depending on complexity. Why Hire a Felony Defense Attorney Early? Felony charges are serious. The sooner you get legal representation, the more options you have. Delays can result in: ● Lost evidence ● Missed opportunities for charge reductions ● Increases in bail amounts At Maureen F. Baldwin, Attorney at Law, we act fast. We gather evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build a defense strategy aimed at protecting your future. How We Can Help Maureen Baldwin is a trusted San Jose felony lawyer with a proven record of courtroom success. Clients choose us because we offer: ● Personalized Attention: We treat every case with the seriousness it deserves. ● Aggressive Defense: We fight hard for dismissals, acquittals, or favorable plea agreements. ● Strategic Planning: Every move is backed by careful legal analysis and preparation. ● Local Experience: We’re well-known in the San Jose legal system and understand local court dynamics. Consequences of a Felony Conviction A felony conviction can impact many areas of your life, including: ● Employment: Most employers conduct background checks.

4. ● Housing: Convictions can limit your rental options. ● Gun Rights: You may lose the right to own or possess a firearm. ● Voting: In some cases, voting rights are restricted. ● Immigration: Non-citizens may face deportation. Fighting your charges with the help of a skilled attorney is the best way to avoid these outcomes. Conclusion: Protect Your Rights With San Jose’s Trusted Felony Defense If you’re facing a felony in San Jose, don’t gamble with your freedom. The stakes are too high. Hiring a seasoned defense attorney like Maureen F. Baldwin ensures that your rights are defended from day one. From arraignment to trial, we stand by your side, offering professional, aggressive, and ethical representation every step of the way. Call 408-483-1993 today for a free consultation and start protecting your future. Maureen F. Baldwin, Attorney at Law 255 N Market Street, San Jose, CA 95110 Phone: 408-483-1993 Serving clients in San Jose, Santa Clara County, Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Gatos, and more. Visit Our Website for more information and a free case evaluation. FAQs About Felony Charges Q1: What should I do immediately after being arrested for a felony? A: Remain silent and request an attorney. Do not answer questions or sign anything without legal counsel. Contact an experienced felony defense lawyer like Maureen Baldwin immediately. Q2: Can felony charges be reduced to misdemeanors? A: Yes, some charges may be reduced depending on the facts of the case, your criminal history, and the effectiveness of your legal representation. Q3: Will I go to jail if I’m convicted of a felony? A: Not always. Some felony convictions result in probation, rehabilitation programs, or house arrest, depending on the charge and circumstances. Q4: What are “wobbler” offenses? A: These are crimes that can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony. A skilled attorney can argue for the lesser charge to reduce penalties.

5. Q5: How long does a felony case take to resolve? A: Simple cases may be resolved in a few months, while complex cases that go to trial can take a year or more. Content courtesy https://medium.com/@mahendraalaska08/understanding-a-felony-what-you-n eed-to-know-and-how-to-protect-your-rights-f2497735df5f ________________________________________________ Contact Us Website: https://www.sanjosecriminallawoffice.com/ Address: 255 N Market Street,San Jose, CA 95110 Phone:408-483-1993