How to Lessen the Consequences of Felony Convictions

February 25, 2025

In California, a felony conviction means more than a fine or jail sentence. It means having a serious criminal record. Felony convictions can prevent you from getting a job, education, home, driving, or volunteering at a local soup kitchen. They are life-altering events, but they can be mitigated before trial.

Hiring the right criminal defense lawyer in California can help protect you from the most serious consequences of a felony conviction. Please do not talk to the police without first speaking with one of our lawyers. Call (805) 643-5555 or contact us online immediately to discuss the specifics of your case. 

Direct Consequences of a California Felony Conviction 

Every felony-level offense in California carries its own penalties and sentencing guidelines, which may increase or decrease based on your criminal record and certain aggravating factors. In general, felony convictions in California may carry the following judicial penalties: 

You can discuss the specific penalties applicable to your case with a local criminal defense attorney. 

Consequences of Having a Criminal Record 

Importantly, felony convictions carry additional social reproductions, making it difficult for those convicted to rebuild their lives. These consequences often result from having the word ‘felony’ on your criminal record, which might automatically disqualify you from the following: 

In California, felony charges are very serious. Do not try to defend yourself or plead guilty without a dedicated criminal defense lawyer. 

Ways to Mitigate California Felony Charges 

Experienced felony defense attorneys strive to get the charges against you dropped, but if the prosecution’s evidence is too strong, they may attempt to mitigate the consequences of a conviction. They generally do this by negotiating a plea deal with prosecutors, which could result in felony charges being reduced to misdemeanor charges or another lesser-included offense. Plea deals might also protect you from serving jail time and even allow you to ‘expunge’ your criminal record based on good behavior. This type of case dismissal can help defendants obtain better employment and rebuild their lives. 

Certain mitigating factors, such as acting in self-defense, might also reduce the severity of felony charges. If you take your case to trial, your attorney may present evidence to the jury either excusing or justifying your actions. These mitigating factors could result in not-guilty verdicts or less severe fines and jail sentences.

Contact an Experienced California Felony Defense Lawyer Immediately 

Only a qualified California attorney who handles criminal cases can assess the consequences and mitigating factors applicable to your charges. Do not speak with prosecutors or attempt to handle these matters alone. Invoke your right to remain silent and right to an attorney and contact Bamieh & De Smeth at (805) 643-5555 or online immediately to discuss your case.