Does a felony automatically mean jail time?

Just because a statute classifies a crime as a felony and it carries the possibility of a prison sentence doesn’t mean that every convicted felon will go to prison. For less serious or first-time felonies, the judge can usually sentence a person to either jail time or probation, instead of prison.

What should I do if I am charged with a felony?

You will not be able to have the bail bond fees you paid returned to you if that were to happen. The first call that you should make after your arrest is to an experienced criminal defense attorney who can properly guide you through the complicated issue of posting bail.

What happens if you are charged with a misdemeanor?

With a few exceptions, a person charged with a misdemeanor may elect to have their attorney make any appearance in court in their place, meaning the defendant can choose not to appear in court. That is not the case if you have been charged with a felony.

How can I get a felony conviction expunged from my record?

Write an application or letter requesting expungement for a federal record. If you were tried and convicted in federal court the judge has authority to expunge your conviction record. If your conviction was for drug possession, contact the clerk of the district court and request a Discharge and Dismissal form.

How much does it cost to get a felony removed from your record?

If you have to file your forms with a clerk of the court, expect to pay filing fees ranging from less than a hundred dollars to a few hundred dollars. Attend your hearing, if necessary.

You will not be able to have the bail bond fees you paid returned to you if that were to happen. The first call that you should make after your arrest is to an experienced criminal defense attorney who can properly guide you through the complicated issue of posting bail.

When to report a felony to the police?

Felony convictions can be reported as far back as the employer chooses to go. Many employers check a period of five to ten years of history when hiring applicants. The exception for reporting a conviction is when felons have had their records expunged or sealed at the time of the background check.

Write an application or letter requesting expungement for a federal record. If you were tried and convicted in federal court the judge has authority to expunge your conviction record. If your conviction was for drug possession, contact the clerk of the district court and request a Discharge and Dismissal form.

What happens if you are charged with a felony in California?

That is not the case if you have been charged with a felony. California Penal Code section 977 (b) requires that for any felony, the defendant must be present for the arraignment, the time of plea, preliminary hearings, any portion of the trial where evidence is presented to the judge or jury, and the imposition of the sentence.