St. Louis Criminal Defense Lawyers
Facing a criminal charge, especially a serious felony offense, is a life-changing event. The stakes are high, and the consequences can include a lengthy prison sentence, substantial fine, and permanent criminal record.
The criminal legal system can be complex and overwhelming, which is why having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side is essential. A strong defense can significantly impact the outcome of your case and the rest of your life.
Whether you’re facing charges in the St. Louis area’s local courts or in federal court, you can count on Frank & Juengel Law Group P.C., for the representation you need. Our attorneys use their decades of experience to defend clients against the most serious criminal charges.
I Was Charged With a Felony Offense, Now What?
If you’re facing felony charges, it’s crucial to understand the gravity of the situation. Felonies are the most serious types of crimes, and convictions can lead to severe penalties that can change the trajectory of your life.
The first step after being charged is to seek legal representation. The sooner you hire an attorney, the sooner they can begin working on your defense. An experienced criminal defense attorney will evaluate the charges against you, investigate the circumstances of your arrest, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case.
It’s also vital to remember that you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Never talk to the police without a lawyer. Always request a lawyer and exercise your right to remain silent. The vast majority of suspects who talk to the police talk their way into jail. The cops are trained to interview suspects and to illicit damaging information, you will not outsmart the police, let your legal team do that.
Never consent to searches, never provide passwords for your devices or computers. Even if they have a search warrant. If you have not consented, we can raise legal challenges. Most of the time, if you consent, you have waived your 4th Amendment defenses.
What Are the Penalties for a Felony Conviction?
The penalties for a felony conviction vary depending on the crime’s nature, the state in which the crime occurred, and whether you are facing federal charges. Class A felonies are the most severe, followed by Class B, C, D, etc. In Missouri, those charged with felonies face the following penalties:
- Class A Felony – A prison sentence of ten to thirty years or life in prison.
- Class B Felony – A prison sentence of five to fifteen years.
- Class C Felony – A prison sentence of three to ten years.
- Class D Felony – A prison sentence of up to seven years.
- Class E Felony – A prison sentence of up to four years.
In addition to prison sentences, felony convictions can result in hefty fines, probation, loss of civil rights such as the right to vote or own firearms, and a permanent criminal record that can affect your employment and housing opportunities. Even a Class E felony conviction can have a lasting impact on your life.
Felony Criminal Defense
Serious felony charges require serious criminal defense. Some of the felony charges we defend clients against include:
Murder/Homicide
Murder and homicide are among the most severe criminal charges you can face. A conviction can result in life in prison or even the death penalty in Missouri. These cases require an aggressive defense strategy, as the prosecution often seeks the maximum penalty.
Our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients against these charges. We focus on challenging the prosecution’s evidence and identifying weaknesses in their case.
Sex Crimes
Sex crimes are particularly serious due to the severe penalties and stigma associated with a conviction. Felony charges may include rape, sexual assault, and possession of child pornography.
A sex crime conviction can result in long-term imprisonment, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and significant social and personal consequences. Those with sex crime convictions have restrictions on where they can live, where they can go, and what jobs they can hold.
Our team provides rigorous defense for clients accused of sex crimes, protecting their rights and making sure they receive a fair trial and the best chance of acquittal.
Violent Offenses
Violent offenses include a range of serious crimes, including assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, and domestic violence. Defending against violent crime charges requires a thorough understanding of criminal law and how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence effectively.
Our attorneys can negotiate plea deals, present the best defense at trial, or advocate for reduced sentences for those charged with violent offenses whenever possible.
Drug Crimes
Serious drug crimes, including trafficking, distribution, and manufacturing, can lead to substantial prison sentences, especially if the case involves significant amounts of controlled substances or is prosecuted at the federal level.
Missouri and Illinois have strict drug laws, and a conviction can have severe consequences. Our firm defends clients against all types of drug charges. Some of our defense tactics include challenging the legality of searches and seizures and negotiating favorable plea deals. Trial is always an option if we have a chance to win.
Federal Criminal Defense
In Federal criminal prosecutions, the stakes are often higher than in state courts. These cases involve complex legal issues and carry harsher penalties, including significant mandatory minimum sentences.
Our firm represents clients facing federal charges in the Eastern District of Missouri and the Southern District of Illinois. Some of the federal charges we defend against include Murder, drug trafficking, white-collar crimes, firearms offenses, conspiracy, and Federal Internet and Child Pornography crimes.
Federal cases require a deep understanding of federal law and procedure, which often differ from those in state courts. If you are facing federal charges, you need an attorney with extensive experience in federal criminal defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?
The best time to hire a criminal defense attorney is as soon as you become aware that you are under investigation. It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense attorney early in the process so they can provide legal advice and begin building your defense strategy immediately and ensure your rights are protected before a formal case is even filed.
An attorney will advise you on how to interact with law enforcement, protect your rights during the investigation, and make sure you don’t accidentally incriminate yourself. They can also challenge the prosecution’s case or negotiate a favorable outcome early in the criminal proceedings.
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Assist With My Case?
A criminal defense attorney plays a critical role in protecting your rights and defending you against the charges you face. Some keyways an attorney can assist you are:
- Evaluating Your Case – Your attorney will evaluate your case to determine its strengths and weaknesses.
- Investigating Your Case – Your attorney will investigate your case and gather evidence that supports your defense, such as security camera footage, eyewitness statements, and crime scene evidence that doesn’t match the prosecution’s story.
- Building Your Defense Strategy – Your attorney will develop a defense strategy to use in negotiations and at trial.
- Negotiating Plea Deals If you wish to seek a plea deal, your attorney will negotiate for reduced charges or penalties when possible
- Preparing for Trial – Your attorney will assist you in preparing for trial by going over your testimony and explaining what you can expect in court. Our firm will investigate the case prepare winning arguments and cross-examinations to attack the government witnesses.
- Representing You in Court – Your attorney will present your case before a judge and jury of your peers and argue for the best possible outcome.
Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving the St. Louis Area
If you are facing criminal charges in the St. Louis area on either side of the river or in the federal court system, you need an experienced team of attorneys in your corner. Your liberty is on the line. You need a defense team with the experience, knowledge, and dedication to fight the charges against you.
Contact Frank & Juengel Law Group P.C., at (314) 582-9546 for a consultation with our criminal defense lawyers. We’ll evaluate your case, explain the charges you’re facing, and help you understand your legal options.