Jackson Felony Law Attorney

Understanding Felony Charges in Jackson, MS

In the context of Jackson, MS, felony charges follow the state’s legal framework, which may slightly differ from other states. Mississippi categorizes felonies into crimes such as murder, arson, and drug trafficking. The conviction of a felony charge in Jackson can severely affect a person’s future, including voting rights, employment prospects, and personal freedoms.

 Navigating these complex charges requires a legal team that understands both the local and broader implications of criminal defense. At Coxwell & Associates, we are committed to providing our clients with a clear understanding of their charges and options.

WHAT IS A FELONY?

The word felony refers to a group of crimes that are considered to be the more serious and are distinguished from the lesser crimes called misdemeanors. In Mississippi, the criminal justice system still uses the terms felony and misdemeanor, while other states have done away with the terms and classify crimes as Class A, B, C, etc. The kinds of crimes that are considered to be felonies include, but are not limited to, murder, rape, arson, drug crimes, embezzlement, grand larceny, and some repeat misdemeanors, such as a third offense for shoplifting or a third offense for driving under the influence.

Understanding the distinction between felonies and misdemeanors in Jackson, and across Mississippi, is crucial for anyone facing criminal charges. Felonies are treated with greater severity, often resulting in longer sentences and higher fines if convicted. This severity makes it imperative to seek knowledgeable legal representation. At Coxwell & Associates, we ensure that our clients are fully informed about the nature of their charges and the potential impact on their lives, helping them navigate the complexities of the legal system.

How Are Felonies Charged in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, a felony can only be charged by a Grand Jury. A Grand Jury is a group of citizens from a County who are summoned to the courthouse, like a Petit jury, or trial jury, and who are given an oath and the responsibility to inquire into crimes that have been committed in the County. The Grand Jury does not determine guilt or innocence; they only decide if there is probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and that the person charged committed the crime. 

No one generally appears for the accused citizen, and he is not called by the Grand Jury. If the Grand Jury finds probable cause, they will return a True Bill or, as it is commonly called, an Indictment. The Indictment is not evidence of a crime and may not be introduced into evidence. It is merely the charging document that starts the formal criminal process in Circuit Court. In some instances, citizens accused of felonies can waive their right to have an Indictment returned by a Grand Jury. When this is done, it is often part of a plea bargain, and the accused agrees to allow the prosecution to proceed forward on what is called an Information. This is simply an Affidavit, much like what is used in misdemeanor cases.

The Grand Jury process is an integral step in Mississippi's felony charges, ensuring that there is a fair basis for pursuing formal charges. It serves as a preliminary check on prosecutorial power, safeguarding citizens from baseless accusations. For individuals facing such a daunting situation, understanding this process is vital. Having skilled legal representation during this phase can make a significant difference in the outcome, as it sets the stage for potential defenses and plea negotiations. Our team at Coxwell & Associates is adept at guiding our clients through these proceedings with clarity and diligence.

Is A Grand Jury Indictment The First Step In A Felony?

The answer to this question is yes and no. An accused citizen charged with a felony can only have his charges presented in Circuit Court by way of Indictment, unless the accused waives Indictment and agrees to allow the Prosecution to proceed by Information. However, charges are often brought against a person prior to a Grand Jury Indictment. 

Typically, law enforcement authorities respond to information about a crime and begin their investigation. The results of that investigation often focus on one or more persons. If the law enforcement officials arrest a person(s), they do this based on probable cause to believe they committed the crime. They can arrest with or without a warrant. Although a warrant is preferred by law, in many instances, it is not practical for law enforcement officials to obtain a warrant, such as in a crime in progress, so they take the offender into custody. 

Once the person is arrested, he will be taken to jail to await his first appearance before a Judge. Even before a formal indictment, understanding the legal steps that follow an arrest in Jackson, MS, can be intricate. It often involves immediate decisions impacting bail, arraignment, and potential defense strategies. Engaging a well-versed felony attorney from Coxwell & Associates at this crucial juncture is essential. 

Our attorneys offer guidance on what to expect and help in making informed legal choices, ensuring that clients are not left navigating the criminal system without support. We make it a priority to provide clear communication and strategic planning tailored to each case.

Steps Following a Felony Arrest in Jackson

After a felony arrest in Jackson, the accused will typically face a series of legal steps, including an initial hearing, possible bail, and arraignment. During the initial hearing, charges are officially read, and the judge will set bail conditions. If bail is not granted, the individual will remain in custody until the court date. Arraignment marks the next phase, where the accused will enter a plea. Navigating these phases with legal guidance is crucial, as decisions made here can impact the entire legal process.

At Coxwell & Associates, we provide robust legal support throughout these processes, assisting with bail negotiations and plea strategies. This is where our over 70 years of combined legal experience come into play, ensuring every client receives attentive and personalized legal care. We aim to alleviate the stress of legal uncertainties and work towards achieving the best possible outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Penalties for Felonies in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, the penalties for felonies vary greatly depending on the nature of the crime, prior convictions, and other factors such as the defendant’s role in the crime. Generally, felony convictions can lead to hefty fines, extended imprisonment, or both. For example, a conviction for a Class A felony might result in a life sentence or a significant prison term. Lesser felonies might involve shorter incarceration periods and fines. Understanding these potential penalties is critical, as they have long-term implications on an individual’s life post-conviction.

At Coxwell & Associates, we guide our clients through understanding these complexities, ensuring they are aware of what to anticipate. This helps in preparing an effective defense strategy. Our legal approach prioritizes mitigating these penalties and serves as a cornerstone in defending our clients in Jackson. This involves scrutinizing every aspect of the case and identifying potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument.

How Can a Felony Conviction Affect My Future?

Being convicted of a felony can have profound impacts on your life beyond immediate legal penalties. It can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, and may even restrict civil rights such as voting and jury service. In some professions, a felony conviction could mean the loss of necessary licensing or disqualification from certain jobs. Beyond these, societal stigma associated with being labeled a felon can also be challenging to navigate.

At Coxwell & Associates, our legal defense includes helping clients understand these potential life changes. We advocate vigorously to not only defend criminal charges but also to help mitigate any collateral consequences that may arise from a conviction. Our proactive approach seeks to address these impacts early on in the case to provide the best possible future for our clients.

Why Is Legal Representation Crucial for Felony Charges?

The complexity of felony charges makes legal representation imperative. With potential outcomes that drastically alter life, having an experienced legal team can greatly influence the direction and ultimate resolution of the case. Navigating procedural requirements, evaluating evidence, and formulating defenses are tasks typically beyond the capability of an untrained individual. A qualified attorney not only offers legal advice but acts as an advocate, operating in the client’s best interest at every step.

At Coxwell & Associates, our focus is comprehensive defense, leveraging our experience to achieve favorable outcomes. Our attorneys are well-versed in Jackson’s court systems and laws, providing unmatched legal guidance and advocacy. We stand firmly beside our clients, dedicating our resources to ensure robust defense strategies.

If you have found yourself on the wrong side of the law and are facing criminal charges, please contact the experienced criminal defense firm at Coxwell & Associates, PLLC today to schedule a confidential meeting.