This is the next article in my discussion on dealing with felony matters in our state. My last article discussed defending Class “D” felony charges in Arkansas. Such charges carry a sentence of up to six years in prison and are often brought in conjunction with other counts. If a defendant is convicted, and various counts are run “consecutively,” then the individual is facing a very serious prison sentence. Retaining an attorney is crucial to ensuring that one’s rights remain protected. In this article I will discuss what to expect after being charged with a Class “Y” felony. If you or a family member are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a Little Rock criminal defense lawyer.
Arkansas Class “Y” felonies can result in up to forty years in prison
A Class “Y” felony is the most serious non-capital charge which one can receive in Arkansas. A defendant, if convicted, can be sentenced to a term of ten to forty years in prison. Examples of a Class “Y” felony can include statutory rape, rape, drug trafficking, kidnapping, etc. Many Class “Y” felony offenders will not be eligible for probation. Certain drug offenses, however, may be probationable. As with Class “D” charges, Class “Y” allegations will often be brought in conjunction with other counts. This is due to the fact that allegations which result in Class “Y” charges often involve conduct which falls into other classes of crimes. If a defendant is convicted for a Class “Y” offense, and they are also convicted on other counts, then they may possibly be required to serve all of the time for the Class “Y” charge before time begins to be credited towards the other counts. How a judge will sentence a defendant in any given matter, however, will depend on the facts of the case.
It must be stressed that prosecutors and judges take Class “Y” charges very seriously as they involve some of the most serious crimes which occur. It is seldom that such matters are resolved without the requirement of a prison sentence. Mounting a vigorous defense is important as there may be grounds for gaining a dismissal or defending the charges. Even if it is not possible to outright win the case, mounting a proper defense does increase the chance of gaining a more favorable resolution from the prosecutors.
Contact a Little Rock lawyer if you are facing Class “Y” felony charges
If you are facing Class “Y” felony charges then it is vital that you retain representation as soon as possible. As a Little Rock criminal defense lawyer, I am familiar with the handling of such matters. We understand the gravity of your situation and we will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone for assistance. We also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, and throughout the rest of Arkansas.