Manassas Criminal Defense Lawyer
Whether you have been charged and found guilty in the past or have never even seen the inside of a courtroom in real life before now, being accused of violating state law can be an unsettling and potentially life-altering experience. In either scenario, a guilty plea or conviction could lead to steep fines, probation, and possibly even incarceration.
If you want to fight back against a criminal accusation, you will almost certainly need help from experienced private defense counsel. Fortunately, the assistance you need is available from a seasoned Manassas criminal defense lawyer who has handled similar cases successfully in the past and can help you pursue a favorable resolution.
How Are Criminal Charges Classified in Virginia?
Like most states, Virginia categorizes most criminal offenses as “misdemeanors” or “felonies,” with the latter being substantially more severe than the former. Misdemeanors are punishable by incarceration in local or county jail for no more than 12 consecutive months, while maximum sentences for felonies vary widely, from one year in jail to life in prison.
Each of these two categories has several subcategories called “classes,” which have different maximum sentencing guidelines attached to them and which individual criminal offenses are sorted into. There are four classes of misdemeanors and six classes of felonies, with Class 1 offenses carrying the most severe penalties compared to other classes.
Certain classes of felony offenses have mandatory minimum prison terms attached to them in addition to maximum terms. For example, the charge of being a nonviolent felon in possession of a firearm is a Class 6 felony that can carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison, but which also carries a mandatory minimum of two years of incarceration. Additionally, as a Manassas criminal defense attorney can further explain, certain offenses are treated as “wobblers,” which can be classified and prosecuted as felonies, but punished like misdemeanors, depending on the circumstances.
Building Strong Defenses Against All Types of Allegations
Despite this consistent classification system, each criminal case is unique. That means there is no one-size-fits-all approach to effectively fighting against criminal charges. Even if two people are facing the exact same charge as defined under state law, the circumstances of their arrest, the precise means by which they allegedly committed the crime in question, and even their previous criminal history—or lack thereof—can have significant effects on how their criminal trial proceeds and what outcome it ultimately has.
This is the biggest reason among many why it can be so important to have representation from a skilled defense lawyer when facing criminal charges in Manassas. From collecting important evidence to negotiating with court officials to helping construct the strongest and most comprehensive defense strategy, private legal counsel can provide custom-tailored and irreplaceable support throughout the entire legal process.
Get in Touch With a Manassas Criminal Defense Attorney Today
It can be hard to know what you should do or even what options you have after being arrested and charged with a crime. What you should always keep in mind, though, is that you have the right to seek professional legal representation at any point after being accused of a crime, while being investigated on suspicion of committing one, or even before law enforcement has set their sights on you at all.
A confidential conversation with a Manassas criminal defense lawyer can give you answers to pressing questions and confidence about how to enforce your rights. Call Price Benowitz today to set up a meeting.
