Lafayette Felony Defense Lawyer

Experienced Felony Defense Attorney in Lafayette

Facing criminal charges can leave you facing harsh penalties under Louisiana law. When it comes to felony charges, these penalties can include long-term imprisonment and even death. If you’re involved in a felony case in Louisiana, consider hiring a Lafayette felony defense lawyer to represent you. Your legal team can help you form your defense and protect your freedoms throughout a felony defense case.

For decades, Eric S. Neumann, Attorney at Law, has been representing clients throughout Acadiana in tough criminal cases. We understand how unforgiving Louisiana’s criminal justice system can be, and we’re familiar with tactics used by prosecutors.

You can count on us to help you navigate the different stages of your case through the 15th Judicial District Court in Lafayette Parish. Moreover, we can represent you through pretrial procedures to help you secure a better outcome.

Louisiana Felony Defense Laws

Both property crimes and violent crimes have been higher in Louisiana than the national average in recent years. The Lafayette Police Department alone reported 3,526 crimes in a single year. Some property crimes and many violent crimes can be charged as felonies under Louisiana law.

The Louisiana legislature defines a felony as any crime that may be punishable by imprisonment at hard labor or death. Felony charges are reserved for serious crimes, including offenses like:

• Crimes of violence
• Property crimes over a certain amount
• Repeat offenses for crimes like DWI

It’s important to note that an offender does not necessarily have to be sentenced to imprisonment at hard labor or to death for an offense to be a felony. It just has to be a possible punishment on the table.

If convicted of a felony in Lafayette, you can also expect to be responsible for legal fines and lose certain rights. You must complete any specific stipulations set forth by a judge in the 15th Judicial District Court.

A Lafayette felony defense attorney can help you understand your options and represent your interests in and out of the courtroom. No matter what stage of a felony defense case you’re in, it’s important that you understand your rights. Your attorney can help protect you while you navigate the charges against you and seek a fair outcome.

Your Local Lafayette Felony Defense Attorneys

Eric S. Neumann, Attorney at Law, brings over 25 years of criminal defense experience with criminal cases in the Acadiana region and throughout the state of Louisiana. As a local law firm, we have in-depth knowledge of state felony defense laws. More importantly, we’re familiar with handling these cases through Louisiana courts and working with state prosecutors and judges.

Over the years, we have earned a great reputation. Attorney Eric S. Neumann won the Best of Acadiana Family Law Attorney award in 2020. Moreover, our firm is affiliated with the:

• Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Lafayette Bar Association & Foundation
• Louisiana State Bar**

FAQs

What Crimes Are Charged as Felonies in Lafayette?

What crimes are charged as felonies in Lafayette often depends on the details of the crime itself. For example, DWI can be a misdemeanor under Louisiana law, but is charged as a felony on the third or subsequent offense. Some crimes are automatically felonies. This includes:

• Armed robbery
• Arson
• Carjacking
• Certain drug crimes
• Home invasion
• Kidnapping
• Manslaughter
• Murder
• Rape
• Some theft crimes

It’s wise to hire a felony defense lawyer if you’re facing charges for any of the above crimes.

Can a Felony Charge in Lafayette be Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes, a felony charge in Lafayette can be reduced or dismissed by a prosecutor or judge for a number of different reasons. For starters, you and your Lafayette felony defense lawyer can successfully negotiate a plea bargain to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor, resulting in a lighter sentence.

You can also avoid a felony conviction through pre-trial diversion. This option is typically available for first-time offenses or non-violent crimes. A successful defense can also help you avoid felony sentencing.

Can I Avoid Jail Time for a Felony Crime in Lafayette?

Yes, you can avoid jail time for a felony crime in Lafayette, but it can be difficult to defend against your charges successfully to secure a lighter sentence. It’s possible to avoid jail time with a solid defense, which is why it’s recommended that you hire a felony defense lawyer to help you through your case.

You are more likely to secure reduced sentencing for non-violent offenses if you don’t have an existing criminal record.

What Defense Can I Use in a Felony Case in Lafayette?

What defense you can use in a felony case in Lafayette ultimately is going to depend on the facts of the case. Possible defenses that your Lafayette felony defense lawyer may discuss with you can include:

• Affirmative defenses such as coercion, duress, lack of intent, and self-defense or defense of others.
• Claiming mistaken identity
• Invalidating your arrest and/or subsequent processing
• Negotiating a plea bargain
• Presenting an alibi

Hire a Felony Defense Lawyer in Lafayette to Discuss Your Legal Options

Facing felony charges under Louisiana law is serious. Charges alone can lead to issues in your personal and professional life, and a conviction only makes things worse. If you even suspect you’re under investigation for a felony, it’s recommended that you hire a felony defense lawyer to represent you and protect your rights throughout the case.

Those accused in Lafayette Parish and surrounding communities have been trusting Eric S. Neumann, Attorney at Law, to guide them through complex criminal cases for over two and a half decades. We’re committed to protecting your freedoms and helping you secure a fair outcome for your case.

If you’re ready to discuss matters in more detail with a Lafayette criminal defense attorney, our team is here to help. Reach out to set up a consultation with a member of our team today. Our office is located right here in Lafayette. You can find us on Clinton Street, not too far from the I-10 and I-49 interchange.

**Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.