Kerr County Felony Lawyers

Defend Against Felony Charges with Experienced Attorneys You Can Trust

Felony charges are among the most serious offenses in Texas, often resulting in steep fines, lengthy prison terms, and lasting repercussions on personal and professional life. If you’re facing a felony charge in Kerr County, the potential consequences can be life-changing. A conviction could impact your ability to secure housing, employment, or educational opportunities and may permanently tarnish your record.

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, our skilled attorneys understand the complexities of Texas criminal law and are dedicated to defending individuals against felony charges. We will work with you to develop a solid legal strategy and navigate your case with confidence, offering you the guidance and representation you deserve. 

To schedule a consultation with a trusted felony defense lawyers, contact us online or via phone at (830) 590-0589.

Understanding Felony Classifications in Texas

In Texas, criminal charges are classified based on severity, with felonies representing the most serious category. Below is a breakdown of felony classifications, from the least to most severe:

• State Jail Felony
• Third-Degree Felony
• Second-Degree Felony
• First-Degree Felony
• Capital Felony

Each level of felony carries different penalties and repercussions, and understanding these classifications can help you grasp the stakes of a felony charge.

State Jail Felony Charges

A state jail felony is punishable by 180 days to 2 years in a prison facility and fines up to $2,000. This category often includes offenses such as:

• Driving while intoxicated (DWI) with a child in the vehicle
• Criminally negligent homicide
• Animal cruelty
• Possession of less than one gram of a controlled substance
• Forgery
• Interfering with child custody

State jail felonies, though less severe than higher-level felonies, can still significantly impact your life. Convictions for these offenses may bar you from certain jobs, housing options, and other critical opportunities.

Third-Degree Felony Charges

Third-degree felonies carry more stringent penalties, with prison sentences ranging from 2 to 10 years and fines up to $10,000. Common third-degree felony charges include:

• DWI with two or more prior offenses
• Tampering with evidence
• Stalking
• Deadly conduct involving a firearm
• Assault while intoxicated

A third-degree felony conviction can impose substantial restrictions on your rights, especially concerning employment and civil liberties. These charges require a strong legal defense, as they can hinder future opportunities and bring long-term consequences.

Second-Degree Felony Charges

Second-degree felonies are even more serious, with prison sentences ranging from 2 to 20 years and fines reaching up to $10,000. These charges are typically associated with offenses such as:

• Human trafficking
• Manslaughter or manslaughter while intoxicated
• Sexual assault
• Aggravated assault
• Indecent conduct with a minor

Defending against second-degree felony charges requires careful consideration and thorough preparation. The stakes are high, as convictions may lead to extended prison terms, substantial financial penalties, and the long-term loss of rights.

First-Degree Felony Charges

First-degree felonies are among the most severe criminal charges in Texas, carrying potential prison sentences of 5 to 99 years (or more) and fines up to $10,000. Examples of first-degree felony charges include:

• Sexual assault of a child
• Aggravated robbery or kidnapping
• Assaulting a public servant, elderly person, or child
• Soliciting capital murder

A first-degree felony conviction can be life-altering, leading to years in prison and significant personal and financial repercussions. If you are facing a first-degree felony charge, it’s essential to have experienced legal representation that can help protect your rights and freedom.

Capital Felony Charges

Capital felonies are the most serious charges in Texas, punishable by life imprisonment without parole or even the death penalty. Capital felony offenses include:

• Premeditated capital murder
• Genocide
• Treason
• Espionage

Capital felony cases are complex and demanding, with life-or-death consequences. Only a highly skilled attorney can provide the expertise needed for such a serious defense. 

The Lifelong Impact of a Felony Conviction

A felony conviction is not only a criminal sentence but a life sentence. Here are some of the ways a felony conviction can impact your life beyond the legal penalties:

• Financial Strain: Felony convictions come with steep fines and can result in prolonged legal battles, leading to substantial financial strain.
• Restrictive Sentencing: Felonies come with fewer chances for reduced sentences or probation. Only specific cases may qualify for probation, and good behavior reductions are often unavailable.
• Loss of Rights: Felony convictions strip individuals of certain rights, such as voting during the sentence period and, in some cases, the right to bear arms. While Texas allows felons to possess firearms five years post-sentence, federal law may still impose restrictions.
• Employment Challenges: Many employers hesitate to hire individuals with a felony record, viewing it as a mark against a person’s character. This can stall your career or prevent you from finding gainful employment long-term.
• Housing Difficulties: A felony on your record can make housing applications challenging, as many landlords are reluctant to rent to individuals with a criminal history.

Given the severe and far-reaching consequences of a felony conviction, securing a strong defense is essential. Our experienced Kerr County felony lawyers at Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, can advocate for your rights, working tirelessly to minimize the impact of these charges.

Enhanced Penalties for Repeat & Habitual Offenders

Texas takes a strong stance against repeat offenders, especially those with multiple felony convictions. The state imposes strict penalties to discourage habitual criminal behavior, including longer prison sentences and increased fines. Under Texas’s “three strikes” law, multiple felony convictions can lead to enhanced sentencing, potentially resulting in life imprisonment for certain offenses.

Bail Amounts for Felony Charges: What to Expect

Bail amounts for felony charges vary by offense severity. Typical felony bails in Texas range from $5,000 to $20,000, though serious crimes, such as capital murder, may not be eligible for bail. Securing a reasonable bail amount can be essential to preparing a defense outside of jail, where you have better access to your attorney and other resources.

At Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, we work to negotiate fair bail terms, ensuring that you can continue to work on your defense with us from a position of freedom, when possible.

Trust Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, for Your Kerr County Felony Defense

Facing a felony charge is one of the most daunting challenges a person can endure. The Kerr County felony lawyers at Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, are here to provide unwavering support and skilled representation, no matter the circumstances. Our team is committed to defending your rights and protecting your future, handling each case with care, respect, and a robust legal strategy.

Contact Cofer & Connelly, PLLC today at (830) 590-0589 to schedule a confidential consultation with our Kerr County felony defense lawyers. We are here to defend your rights and fight your charges head-on.