Des Moines Felony Lawyer

Building a Strong Defense Against Serious Charges

Felony charges may have severe long-term consequences. Those convicted of felonies face challenges when applying for housing or employment. Branstad & Olson offers support. Our Des Moines felony lawyers are ready to assist.

Timing and strategy are crucial when facing felony charges. Immediate legal counsel can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Our commitment to rapid engagement ensures we can start building your defense promptly. By leveraging our experience, we can anticipate potential prosecutorial strategies, allowing us to counter effectively and present the strongest possible case on your behalf.

Facing serious charges in Iowa? Call Branstad & Olson today at (515) 329-3100 or contact us online to start building your defense with experienced local counsel!

Understanding the Felony Process and Legal Landscape in Iowa

Navigating the felony process in Des Moines requires understanding local laws and procedures. Felony cases typically begin with an arrest followed by an arraignment, where charges are formally presented. Knowing what to expect at each stage, including preliminary hearings and trial processes, can better prepare defendants and their families for what lies ahead.

The legal environment in Des Moines is shaped by its municipal court systems and their specific practices. Understanding how local prosecutors view cases involving repeat offenses or community impact is crucial. Branstad & Olson is well-versed in these nuances, offering tailored strategies built on years of experience in local courts.

Common Types of Felonies in Iowa

The felony level depends on severity, amount, history, or weight. A charge may be a felony based on prior convictions, even if prior convictions were misdemeanors. The designation of felony drug charges may depend on where the acts took place, who was involved, the type of drug, and the amount of substance.

It is critical to have a comprehensive understanding of the nuances involved in felony charges. Each type of felony has unique elements that require specific defense strategies. For instance, understanding the intricacies of drug-related felonies can help identify factors like procedural errors or rights violations, potentially leading to charge reductions or dismissals.

Standard felony charges in Iowa include:

• Willful Injury or Specific Assault Charges: Felony assault charges typically stem from allegations involving a serious injury, an attempt to cause serious injury, or assault involving a weapon.
• Sexual Assault, Battery, or Abuse: Sexual charges are classified based on the type of allegation, if there was injury and the age of individuals involved. Sexual offenses may be categorized as class A, B, C, or D felony offenses. Convictions may carry collateral consequences, including living restrictions, no contact orders, special lifetime parole sentences, a Sex Offender Registry, and a Sex Offender Treatment Program.
• Theft or Burglary: Depending on the item's value taken, theft can be charged as a misdemeanor or a class C or D felony. Burglary can be charged as a class B, C, or D felony, depending on the circumstances.

What Are the Penalties for Felony Convictions in Iowa?

In general, maximum prison terms and fines are:

• Class A Felony: life in prison.
• Class B Felony: up to 25 years in prison.
• Class C Felony: up to $10,000 and 10 years in prison.
• Class D Felony: up to $7,500 and 5 years in prison.

There can be enhancements for certain crimes and habitual offenders. 

Understanding these penalties helps our clients face their legal battles with eyes wide open. It enables us to craft defense strategies that consider the immediate legal implications and the broader impact on your life. By anticipating potential penalties, we can better advise you on plea deals or alternative sentencing options that may minimize the disruption to your life.

Local Support for Felony Defense in Des Moines

Living in Des Moines, you understand the unique challenges our community faces. When it comes to felony charges, the stakes are high, and the impact on your life can be profound. At Branstad & Olson, we are deeply familiar with the local legal landscape and the specific concerns of our residents. We know a felony charge can disrupt your life, from job prospects to housing opportunities and even your right to vote.

One of the significant pain points for Des Moines residents facing felony charges is the potential for long-term consequences beyond the courtroom. For instance, a conviction can make it difficult to secure employment, especially in a competitive job market like ours. Additionally, finding housing can become daunting, as many landlords conduct background checks and may be hesitant to rent to individuals with a felony record.

Our knowledge of the Des Moines area extends beyond the courtroom. We understand local employers' and landlords' concerns and leverage this understanding to help mitigate the collateral damage of a felony charge. We provide guidance on managing public perceptions and assist in overcoming barriers that might arise post-conviction. This holistic approach ensures you receive support on all fronts during one of the most challenging times of your life.

We understand the local nuances and can provide the aggressive defense you need. Whether you're dealing with charges related to assault, theft, or drug offenses, our team is committed to protecting your rights and helping you navigate this challenging time. Our familiarity with Des Moines and its legal environment means we can offer you the most relevant and effective defense strategies.

Don't let a felony charge define your future. Contact Branstad & Olson to discuss your case and learn how we can help you confidently move forward! 

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the potential consequences of a felony conviction in Iowa?

Felony convictions in Iowa can lead to long-term challenges such as difficulties in finding housing or employment, loss of voting rights, and other collateral consequences.

Can prior convictions affect the level of felony charges in Iowa?

Yes, prior convictions can impact the severity of felony charges in Iowa, even if the prior convictions were not at the felony level.

What are some common felony charges in Iowa?

Common felony charges in Iowa include assault, sexual assault, theft, and burglary, each with varying degrees of severity and potential consequences.

How long can someone be sentenced to prison for a Class A felony in Iowa?

For a Class A felony in Iowa, the maximum sentence can be life in prison.

Are there fines associated with felony charges in Iowa?

Yes, depending on the class of felony, fines can range from up to $7,500 for a Class D felony to potentially higher amounts for more severe charges.