A felony is the most serious type of crime you can be charged with. If you or a loved one is facing this kind of charge, it is natural to feel worried, confused, and overwhelmed. In Oregon, a felony conviction can result in significant state prison time and substantial fines. It can impact your rights and future for years to come.

If you or a loved one is facing a felony charge in Bend or Central Oregon, the time to act is now. Do not hesitate to protect your rights and future. Contact the team at Ward Grover & Thomas immediately to discuss your case and next steps. Contact Us Today or call (541) 312-5150.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor: What’s the Key Difference?

The primary distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor lies in the potential punishment. While both are serious criminal charges, a felony carries much harsher penalties.

• A misdemeanor is generally punishable by up to one year in a county jail and fines of a lesser amount.
• A felony conviction, however, means you face the possibility of serving time in an Oregon state prison, often for more than one year.

This key difference affects everything from where you serve your time to the long-term impact on your life. For example, a felony conviction can permanently take away your right to own a firearm. It may make it very difficult to find a job or housing later on.

Felony Classifications in Oregon

Oregon law categorizes felonies into three primary categories based on the severity of the alleged crime. The classification of the charge dictates the minimum and maximum penalties you face, including the length of a possible prison sentence and the size of the fine.

The categories are:

• Class A Felonies: These are the most severe offenses and include crimes like murder or first-degree assault. They carry the longest potential prison sentences.
• Class B Felonies: These are less severe than Class A but still involve substantial penalties, such as certain drug trafficking charges.
• Class C Felonies: These are the least severe type of felony but are still far more serious than any misdemeanor. Examples include certain lower-level theft or DUI charges.

This system is complex. It is critical to have a legal team carefully review every detail of your case to ensure the charges brought against you are accurate under state law.

The Steps of a Felony Criminal Case

The criminal justice system can be intimidating, especially when you are charged with a felony. Here is a simple overview of what typically happens after an arrest:

1. Arraignment: This is your first court appearance. The judge will officially read the charges against you, and you will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. Bail will also be set.
2. Discovery and Investigation: Your legal team gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and investigates the police procedure to find any potential flaws in the prosecution’s case.
3. Motions and Hearings: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge how the state collected information or handled your rights.
4. Plea Bargaining or Trial: Many cases end with a plea deal; however, if a favorable resolution cannot be reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial, where a final verdict is determined.

Why Experienced Legal Representation Matters

When facing state or federal criminal charges, the outcome can truly change the rest of your life. The prosecution has significant resources, and you need a dedicated defense that is just as zealous in its approach. This is especially true for complex felony cases like aggravated DUI, serious drug crimes, or violent crimes.

The right defense starts with understanding the specifics of criminal defense law in Oregon and applying years of combined experience to your unique situation. Whether you are dealing with a felony, a juvenile crime, or seeking an expungement for a past conviction, having a highly experienced team by your side is crucial.

Legal Support in Bend, Oregon

A felony charge can feel like the end of the world, but it is not. You have rights and options. The goal of a strong defense is always to seek the best possible outcome, which can mean fighting for a dismissal, reducing the charge, or minimizing the penalties. Ward Grover & Thomas is here to help.

Do not wait for the consequences to stack up. Start building your defense today. Contact us now for a confidential consultation at (541) 312-5150 or visit our online contact form to speak with a criminal defense attorney in Bend, OR.