Best lawyer in Jonesboro!!!
Hal Rees
Types of Arkansas Felonies
In our extensive experience representing clients charged with felonies in Arkansas, we have defended against varied types of charges. We have experience successfully defending people accused of the following types of felony crimes (among others):
- DWI/DUI with three prior convictions
- Drug possession
- Aggravated robbery
- Aggravated assault
- Domestic violence
- Theft of property of a certain value
- Rape and sexual assault
- Murder
Most of these crimes (with the exceptions of rape/sexual assault and murder) can begin as misdemeanors but rise to the level of a felony because of the circumstances of the case. In example, possession of a small amount of marijuana can be charged as a misdemeanor, but possession of a large amount (with intent to distribute) can result in felony charges. Additionally, the severity of action or use of a deadly weapon can bring a charge from misdemeanor to felony (as in aggravated assault and aggravated robbery).
When you hire a lawyer for your Arkansas felony case, your attorney will explain to you the complete nature of the charges against you and what they might mean as far as penalties and long-term repercussions in your life. It is important to hire an attorney who knows the law and is comfortable working on felony cases.
Felony Penalties in Arkansas
If your case results in a plea deal or trial conviction, you will proceed to the sentencing phase of your case. During sentencing, the judge and/or jury will make decisions about the appropriate punishment, taking into consideration the recommendations of the parties.
Felony convictions in Arkansas have different potential penalties, depend on the “Class” assigned to the particular crime. There are five classes of felonies in the state — Y, A, B, C, and D — and each carries different potential punishments.
- Class D Felony–The least serious type of felony, a Class D felony carries a potential penalty of:
i. Prison time of up to 6 years
ii. Fine of up to $10,000 - Class C Felony – A lower-level felony, a Class C felony carries a potential penalty of:
i. Prison time of 3 to 10 years
ii. Fine of up to $10,000 - Class B Felony – An intermediate-level felony, a Class B felony carries a potential penalty of:
i. Prison time of 5 to 20 years
ii. Fine of up to $15,000 - Class A Felony – A high-level felony, a Class A felony carries a potential penalty of:
i. Prison time of up to 30 years
ii. Fine of up to $15,000 - Class Y Felony – The most serious type of felony that is not punishable by death, a Class Y felony carries a potential penalty of:
i. Prison time of 10 to 40 years
ii. Possible life imprisonment
The type of sentence possible in your case will depend on the work your lawyer has done and the charges still on file if you proceed to trial. Your lawyer will work to disprove the prosecution’s case against you and will explore all possibilities for a plea agreement that provides you the best outcome.
Arkansas Felony Statutes of Limitations
The statutes of limitations — time by which the prosecution must file charges — on felony cases in Arkansas also vary depending on the Class of felony. In general, the statutes of limitations are as follows:
- Class D Felony = 3 years (from the date of the offense)
- Class C Felony = 3 years
- Class B Felony = 3 years
- Class A Felony = 6 years
- Class Y Felony = 6 years
Of note, there is no statute of limitations on murder in Arkansas and typically also no statute of limitations on rape. Your attorney will work with you to determine the statute of limitations that applies to your case and whether this might be used as a defense.
Rees Law Firm Providing Superior Criminal Defense
Attorney Mark Rees has more than 20 years’ experience in Arkansas criminal trials, including significant experience in felony cases. Our firm provides strong advocacy with the knowledge and skills absolutely necessary to win in these cases. The Rees Law Firm believes in accessibility and individualized representation, so you never have unreturned phone calls or feel like your case is not a priority foryour attorney. We understand contact with your attorney is extremely important, and we value communication with our clients just as much as clients.
In a felony case, your lawyer needs to have experience with jury trials, extensive motions practice, and high-stakes defense. You should never hire a lawyer who has little experience in felony cases or does not feel comfortable trying a felony criminal case. Our firm has the experience you need on your side and a record of superior defense in these complex cases.
The Rees Law Firm offers free and confidential case consultations on all criminal cases. We understand how quickly you need answers and guidance on your case, and we will work to immediately begin structuring a defense that will achieve the best results possible. Contact our Jonesboro office today for more information and to schedule your case consultation.
Contact the Rees Law Firm Today
When you hire the Rees Law Firm, you can rely on experienced professionals who know how to win. Contact our firm today at (870) 931-2100 to speak with a skilled Arkansas criminal attorney about your case.