Felony Attorney in Georgetown, TX
Facing a felony charge can be overwhelming. You need a Georgetown felony lawyer who approaches every case with compassion and understanding to devise a defensive strategy that offers the greatest chance of success. Felony cases can be complex, and you may not understand what your rights are or how to exercise them. A felony lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure your rights and interests are honored.
Hire a Felony Lawyer
Every person has the right to legal representation when they face criminal charges. You deserve representation that prioritizes your case and keeps you informed throughout the process. When you hire a felony lawyer from The Law Office of Lytza Rojas, PLLC, you get experienced, compassionate representation. As a former prosecutor, Lytza Rojas knows how to craft a strong defensive strategy that creates doubt in the prosecutor’s case.
Violent Crime in Williamson County
The Texas Uniform Crime Reporting System reports on crime rates for each county in Texas. In 2024, Williamson County experienced 2059 crimes per 100,000 population. This rate includes a total of:
- 11 murders and nonnegligent homicides
- 1 manslaughter by negligence
- 235 rapes
- 52 robberies
- 5,404 aggravated and simple assaults
- 1,208 burglaries
- 6,518 larceny-thefts
- 650 motor vehicle thefts
- 11 human trafficking offenses
Georgetown residents facing felony charges generally have their cases heard at the Williamson County Courthouse. The Law Office of Lytza Rojas, PLLC, is familiar with the local courts and can assist you through the system.
Types of Felony Charges in Texas
Texas classifies felony charges by severity. Aggravating factors could result in a charge being escalated to a higher level. There are five felony classifications:
- Capital Felony
- First-Degree Felony
- Second-Degree Felony
- Third-Degree Felony
- State Jail Felony
Timeline of Felony Charges
Felony cases vary in length, depending on the case’s complexity and whether a plea agreement can be reached. Regardless of how long it takes, the process has several major steps. An experienced felony attorney can assist in gathering evidence, negotiating plea agreements, and representing you at trial. You have the right to an attorney at all major steps of the process. The major steps are:
- Arrest and booking. After the initial arrest, you are taken to jail for processing. During processing, your personal belongings are confiscated, and your information is recorded, including fingerprints and photos. Typically, within 48 hours, you are brought before a judge to set bail. Once you make bail, you are free to leave.
- Arraignment. The arraignment is your first hearing before a judge. The charges are read, and you have to enter a plea. You should only enter a plea after consulting with a qualified felony attorney.
- Pre-trial hearings. Pre-trial hearings allow your defense attorney and the prosecution to exchange evidence through discovery. Your attorney could file motions, including ones to suppress evidence, which could alter the case. This is also when plea agreements are made. This step usually takes the longest.
- Trial. If a plea agreement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial. Following jury selection, both sides have an opportunity to present evidence. The jury decides the verdict after hearing both sides. Trials typically only last from a few days to a few weeks.
- Post-trial sentencing. If a guilty verdict is reached, the judge reads the sentence. Post-trial motions and appeals can also be filed.
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FAQs
What Type of Lawyer Do I Need If I’m Charged with a Felony?
If you are charged with a felony, you need a criminal defense attorney with experience representing felony cases. Felony cases are often more complex than other types of cases and require an attorney with experience in negotiation and litigation. You should also look for an attorney who is familiar with the local courts and prosecutors. You want an attorney with prior experience in the specific type of crime you have been charged with.
How Much Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Cost in Georgetown, TX?
The cost of a Georgetown criminal defense lawyer varies with the details of your case. Felony cases are usually more costly when they are more complex. You could be charged either a fixed fee or an hourly rate. You may also be required to pay a retainer fee before initial work can begin on your case. Cases that go to trial are generally more expensive than cases that can be handled through negotiations or a plea agreement.
What Is the Habitual Offender Rule in Texas?
In Texas, a habitual offender is any offender who has two prior felonies and has been charged with a third felony offense. Being classified as a habitual offender increases the penalties upon conviction of a third felony offense, pursuant to Section 12.42 of the Texas Penal Code. Also known as a “three strikes” law, habitual offenders could face a life term in prison or a term between 25 and 99 years if convicted.
Can a Felony Charge Be Dismissed in Texas?
Yes, there are situations in which a felony charge can be dismissed in Texas. If the prosecution fails to provide convincing evidence, the case can be dismissed. If legal or procedural errors have occurred, a skilled felony attorney can file a motion to suppress evidence or to dismiss the case outright. Plea bargaining could also result in reduced charges, which would not get the case dismissed but could limit potential penalties.
Can You Get the Death Penalty for a Felony Offense in Texas?
You can only get the death penalty for a felony offense in Texas under specific circumstances. Only the highest-level felony, a capital felony, can result in a death sentence, and only for offenders over 18 at the time the crime was committed. The prosecution has to inform the court that they plan to seek the death penalty. A capital felony is defined as the intentional killing of another person under special circumstances outlined in the Texas Penal Code Section 19.03.
Contact The Law Office of Lytza Rojas, PLLC
As a Certified Criminal Law Specialist, Lytza Rojas has the experience to represent your interests during negotiations or litigation. With over 20 years of experience, she represents her clients personally and creates a tailored defensive strategy. Contact The Law Office of Lytza Rojas, PLLC, today to schedule your confidential consultation.
