Felony Defense in Utah
Utah Felony Defense Attorneys
Given how serious criminal felony charges are, it makes sense for you to hire an expert defense lawyer. Our attorneys are experienced at defending cases effectively and aggressively on your behalf. We are dedicated to defending your rights.
Wasatch Defense Attorneys are the sentencing experts you want in your corner. Contact us at 801.980.9965 for your no-obligation case review.
What is a Felony?
Breaking the law in Utah comes in two forms: misdemeanors and felonies. Felonies are considered more serious, so they allow judges to hand down harsher punishments, like life imprisonment or thousands of dollars in fines. Felony offenses include such things as arson, murder, or rape.
Felonies are also divided into different classes: First Degree, Second Degree, Third Degree, and Capital Offense. These different classes are separated by the severity of the crime and, as a result, have different levels of punishment. Burglary, for example, is third or second degree felony (depending on whether it happened at a personal residence or not), but aggravated burglary–which is burglary that involves dangerous weapons or harming or intending to harm someone –is a first degree felony, which means it carries a longer minimum jail time and a larger maximum fine.
Lawmakers in the state of Utah take felony charges very seriously. While some felony offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences, others allow the court discretion to impose probation or prison depending on the circumstances of the case. A felony conviction can still result in significant consequences, including incarceration, fines, and a lasting impact on your record. If you are facing a felony charge, it is critical to have a defense attorney who understands how felonies are classified and sentenced under Utah law. At Wasatch Defense Lawyers, our experienced trial attorneys work strategically to protect your rights, pursue alternatives to jail when possible, and guide you toward the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free case review.
To help you understand the classification of felonies, we have listed the differences below:
Third Degree Felony
A third degree felony is the least serious felony in the state of Utah. This felony is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine up to $5,000, but has no minimum sentence. A good example of a third degree felony is theft of property (or services) with a value of more than $1,500, but less than $5,000.
A third degree felony is the least serious category of felony in the state of Utah. It is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000, and in many cases, the court has discretion in sentencing, including the possibility of probation. A common example of a third degree felony is theft of property or services valued at $5,000 or more but less than $50,000, as outlined under Utah law.
Second Degree Felony
A second degree felony, such as assault with a dangerous weapon, can lead to a prison sentence of 1 to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
First Degree Felony
A first degree felony conviction is punishable by a minimum of five years in prison with a maximum of life imprisonment. You could also be fined up to $10,000. An example of a first degree felony in Utah would be rape.
Capital Offense
A capital offense felony is only attributed to the most serious of crimes in Utah, like murder. These felonies can result in capital punishment (better known as a death sentence), life in prison without parole, or life imprisonment. The minimum sentence is 25 years in prison.
Felony Defense
While misdemeanors are often no more than a formal slap on the wrist, felonies are a much more serious matter. The legal professionals at Wasatch Defense Attorneys in Salt Lake City have over 100 years of experience in criminal law. Our defense attorneys possess the knowledge and experience to handle the full spectrum of felony charges. More importantly, we know how to aggressively defend our clients to preserve their quality of life and even completely avoid felony convictions.
