Walnut Creek Felony Lawyer
Representation for Serious Charges in CA
If you are facing felony charges, you need a strong advocate at your side. Of the two types of criminal charges in California, felonies carry more serious consequences than misdemeanors, with potential for lengthy prison sentences and a lifelong criminal record. Felony convictions affect employment, housing, and future opportunities. If you have been charged with a felony, it is critical not to face this process alone. At Thomas Daly Law, A Professional Corporation, our Walnut Creek felony defense attorney draws on experience in local courtrooms to defend your rights before prosecutors, judges, and juries.
Felony cases in Contra Costa County can proceed quickly, with arraignments often held at the Contra Costa Superior Court in Martinez and occasionally at other regional courthouses. Local legal procedures and courtroom dynamics shape how cases are scheduled and heard. Working with a felony attorney in Contra Costa County who knows how district attorneys and law enforcement handle charges can help you successfully navigate the regional process. Our clients benefit from trusted guidance rooted in an understanding of the unique expectations at every stage in the area’s court system.
Charged with a serious crime in Walnut Creek?Call Thomas Daly Law, A Professional Corporation today at (925) 208-4801 or contact us online to start building a strong defense and protect your future!
Common Types of Felony Charges
Many cases in Walnut Creek and the broader region involve the following felony charges:
- Arson
- Armed robbery or burglary
- Fraud and embezzlement
- Drug crimes
- Felony DUI
- Assault and battery
Felony charges in Contra Costa County also often include crimes such as felony domestic violence or aggravated assault, both prosecuted assertively at the county level. Police departments in Walnut Creek, Martinez, Richmond, and Pittsburg work closely with the district attorney’s office, which can impact how offenses are charged and prosecuted. Understanding the specific classification of your alleged offense helps you and your attorney evaluate the possible consequences and determine a strategy that reflects the standards of local courts.
Felony Sentencing & Penalties in Contra Costa County
Felony convictions in Contra Costa County carry serious repercussions that depend on the details of the case, prior criminal history, and category of offense. California law sets sentencing ranges, but local judges may also consider factors such as community safety and available rehabilitation resources when deciding penalties. Felony sentences can include probation, time in state prison, substantial fines, restitution, or court-ordered counseling. Some felony convictions restrict future job or housing opportunities, which makes legal guidance crucial in defending your case.
Courtrooms in Contra Costa County follow state sentencing laws and pay close attention to the details presented in each case. Non-violent first-time offenders may, in some cases, have access to alternative programs, while repeat or aggravated charges often lead to longer prison terms. The process for sentencing in Walnut Creek, Martinez, or other nearby cities moves swiftly, and options for appealing or reducing a sentence are limited. Understanding the specific risks in Contra Costa County helps you make better decisions as your case moves forward.
The Legal Process for Felony Charges in Contra Costa County
The felony legal process in Contra Costa County starts quickly after an arrest. Defendants usually attend arraignment at the Martinez courthouse, where the court explains formal charges and potential penalties. The process continues through several stages: pretrial hearings, negotiations with prosecutors, and, if necessary, trial. Each step brings important opportunities to challenge the case or negotiate possible outcomes.
Having a felony criminal defense attorney in Contra Costa County with experience in local procedures can make a substantial difference. Local judges and prosecutors have their own routines and perspectives, and effective representation requires someone who understands those nuances. Your attorney will guide you through bail hearings, evidence gathering, and legal arguments while maintaining open communication at every stage. Timely action in preparation for each step remains key, as each deadline and appearance in the Contra Costa County legal process can affect the final outcome.
Don’t Face a Felony Alone
After an arrest, remember these important points to protect yourself:
- Don’t talk to the police without a Walnut Creek felony defense attorney present.
- You are innocent until proven guilty, and the prosecution bears the burden of proof.
- Don’t sign any paperwork until a defense lawyer has reviewed it with you.
Contact Our Walnut Creek Felony Attorney Today
Felony charges can change your life, but you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Thomas Daly is trained and educated to help people facing charges similar to yours and can help you make informed decisions for your circumstances. Consulting with a felony lawyer in Walnut Creek costs nothing, and thoughtful legal guidance can have a major impact, whether you resolve your case through a plea agreement or at trial.
During your assessment, you can discuss the facts behind your arrest, the charges filed in Contra Costa County, and any impending court dates in Martinez, Richmond, or Pittsburg. Thomas Daly describes the legal stages your case could follow in the region, from arraignment through trial, so you prepare for each step. Acting early supports a stronger defense strategy and ensures you know what to expect as felony matters move through the Walnut Creek area and throughout the county.
Contact our Walnut Creek felony lawyer for a confidential consultation and the skilled representation you need to face felony charges with confidence!
FAQs
How quickly do felony cases progress in Contra Costa County?
Felony cases in Contra Costa County follow a set schedule, starting with arraignment within days after an arrest. The local court system aims to resolve cases efficiently, so be ready for strict deadlines and appearances at the Martinez courthouse or elsewhere in the county.
Can I get bail after a felony arrest?
What factors can impact the outcome of a felony case?
Several factors shape the progress of a felony case in Contra Costa County, including the charged offense, the evidence, criminal history, and county prosecution policies. Working with a defense attorney who understands these details gives you a clearer path forward as your case moves through the system.