Chattanooga Felony Lawyer

Protecting Your Rights in Hamilton & Marion Counties

Felony convictions often come with fines, time behind bars, years of probation, and other severe penalties that can have lasting effects on your personal and professional life. At the Law Offices of Meredith Mochel, our Chattanooga felony attorneys understand what is at stake in felony cases, which is why we provide high-caliber defense services to clients in Hamilton County, Marion County, and the surrounding areas. 

Call our Chattanooga felony lawyer today at (423) 250-1499.

What Is a Felony? 

In the criminal justice system, crimes can fall into two main divisions: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are usually less serious crimes like shoplifting, whereas felonies carry severe penalties and include crimes like murder. Most felonies are punishable by at least one year in prison, but capital felonies like murder, armed robbery, and others may be punishable by life imprisonment or the death penalty. 

Can a Misdemeanor Be Changed to a Felony?

In many cases, a misdemeanor is elevated to a felony based on the degree of violence, amount of illegal substances, or the value of items stolen. For example, someone shoplifts from a local grocery store. On the way out, an employee attempts to stop the individual, but they pull out a gun and pull the trigger. In this case, the misdemeanor shoplifting charge is elevated to a felony armed robbery. 

Many crimes also cross into felony territory if they were committed against a person, property, or the state.

What Is the Difference Between Crimes Against a Person, Property, or the State?

• Crimes against the person are criminal acts committed with the intention of hurting, killing, or otherwise harming another individual. These crimes include murder, kidnapping, battery, and assault.
• Crimes against or in relation to property include arson and trespassing. Whether these crimes become felonies depends on the level of property damage.
• Crimes against the state are rarer, but in general, they include criminal acts directed at the state or federal government like treason.

Sexual offenses like rape, assault, prostitution, and exploitation are also a further division of crimes. These criminal acts often become felonies if they include obscene acts with a minor.

Chattanooga Felony Lawyer Fighting for Those Who Need It Most

At Law Offices of Meredith Mochel, we take a strategic and hands-on approach to law that addresses your immediate concerns and future risks. We understand how terrifying felony charges can be, so we ensure that you understand the details of your case. 

Our Chattanooga defense team thoroughly investigates your case in order to build a strategy custom-fit to your situation. This involves a detailed analysis of evidence, witness testimonies, and leveraging legal precedents to your advantage. 

The best thing you can do if you are arrested for a felony is contact a Chattanooga felony attorney as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felonies

What Should I Do if You Have Been Charged with a Felony in Chattanooga?

If you are charged with a felony offense, you may feel pressure to defend yourself during an arrest or police questioning. However, it is vital that you avoid self-incrimination. Admitting guilt when you are arrested can cement the likelihood of jail time and rob you of the opportunity to build a strong defense. 

What Should I Do if I Am Arrested for a Felony?

Upon arrest, it is crucial to remain calm and cooperative while exercising your right to remain silent. Avoid engaging in conversations with law enforcement without legal representation, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Contacting a Chattanooga felony lawyer promptly ensures that your rights are protected and that you can receive proper legal advice. Timely legal intervention can help preserve evidence, strategize your defense, and navigate the complexities of the legal process effectively.

How Can a Felony Impact My Future?

Conviction for a felony can have long-lasting repercussions on various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities, housing, and educational prospects. Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony record can hinder your ability to secure jobs in certain industries. The right legal strategy and representation during your trial can potentially mitigate these impacts, emphasizing the importance of a skilled felony lawyer for these serious matters.

Schedule your free initial criminal defense consultation with our Chattanooga felony defense attorney today: (423) 250-1499.