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First-Degree Felony
Understanding First-Degree Felony in New Castle, Pennsylvania
First-Degree Felony, also known as F1, represents the most serious type of criminal offense someone can commit in New Castle, Pennsylvania. If you have been accused of a first-degree felony, it is absolutely critical to seek immediate legal assistance from an experienced and dedicated criminal lawyer.
Criminal offenses in the United States are categorized as either felonies or misdemeanors. Felonies are more severe and are further classified into three degrees, with first-degree felonies being the gravest, while third-degree felonies are the least severe.
Being convicted of a first-degree felony can lead to imprisonment for up to twenty years. This is not only a loss of personal freedom but can also create ongoing challenges, such as concerns about the well-being of your family. Consulting an attorney can play an essential role in protecting your rights and handling your case.
The impact of a conviction doesn’t end with time served. Individuals convicted of felonies often face long-term disadvantages, such as difficulties in securing stable employment due to employers’ reluctance to hire people with criminal records. Furthermore, convicted felons are prohibited from owning firearms or serving in the military.
What Does “First-Degree Felony” Mean?
Severe Penalties for First-Degree Felonies
Among all felony classifications, first-degree felonies carry the harshest legal penalties, including:
- Up to 20 years of imprisonment
- Fines of up to $25,000
Common Examples of First-Degree Felony Offenses
Offenses categorized as first-degree felonies typically include serious and violent crimes, such as:
- Rape
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated assault of a prison employee, police officer, or other officers of the court
Grading a Sentence
Factors That Determine Sentencing
Sentencing for a first-degree felony in Pennsylvania, including in New Castle, is guided by several factors to ensure fairness based on the severity of the crime and past criminal behavior.
Hence, if you are charged for committing such felonies, make sure to have a New Castle DUI attorney by your side for a strong defense
- Offense Gravity Score (OGS)
The Pennsylvania court system assigns every crime an Offense Gravity Score, or OGS, to represent the severity of the offense. Higher OGS scores indicate more serious offenses.
- Prior Record Score (PRS)
Your criminal record also influences sentencing, with the Prior Record Score (PRS) reflecting the number and gravity of prior convictions. A higher PRS indicates a greater likelihood of harsher sentencing.
The judge considers both the OGS and PRS when determining sentencing. If you have minimal prior convictions and a lower OGS, your sentence is likely to be shorter. However, Pennsylvania judges have some discretion and may deviate from sentencing guidelines based on specific aggravating or mitigating circumstances related to the case.
So, if you have been charged with any of the above actions, stop waiting and consult a New Castle criminal lawyer right away.
Mandatory Minimum Sentences
The Impact of Mandatory Minimum Punishments
Some first-degree felony offenses in Pennsylvania have mandatory minimum sentences. This means that the judge is required to impose a predefined minimum sentence, regardless of the circumstances or mitigating factors. Even if you are facing your first criminal charge with no prior convictions, the law necessitates that the judge enforces the minimum sentence.
That’s why you need to seek help from New Castle criminal lawyers for the best assistance.
How Can a Criminal Lawyer in New Castle Help You?
When facing a first-degree felony charge, having the right legal defense can make all the difference. At Logue Law Group, our experienced New Castle DUI attorney team provides a thorough understanding of the charges against you and identifies any favorable mitigating factors that can help in your defense.
How We Help:
- Case Analysis: Our lawyers examine all aspects of your case to pinpoint possible defense strategies.
- Building a Defense: Using their expertise, they create a strategic plan tailored to achieve the best possible outcome based on the specifics of your case.
- Mitigating Factors: By identifying mitigating factors, our New Castle criminal lawyers can work to reduce potential penalties.
Do not face these charges on your own. If you are dealing with a felony charge, we encourage you to contact our team of skilled lawyers from the Logue Law Group as soon as possible.
Contact Us Today
We are here to safeguard your future. Call us at 844.PITT.DUI or connect with us online to schedule a consultation. Time is of critical importance, and hiring a New Castle DUI attorney promptly can significantly strengthen your defense.