Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Misdemeanors are lesser offenses that are punishable by smaller fines and no more than one year in jail. Felonies are serious criminal charges that can be prosecuted by the state or federal government. These types of crimes often result in more than $1,000 in fines, more than one year in state prison, and other additional penalties. Furthermore, a felony conviction can also result in a loss of your rights.
Not all criminal convictions will result in jail or prison sentences. Whether you go to jail or prison depends not only on the type of crime, but also on your criminal history, whether a child was involved in the commission of the crime, whether or not weapons were involved, and whether or not an innocent person was injured or killed during the commission of the crime.
- What are the penalties for committing a crime in Boston?
A criminal conviction in Boston can lead to a number of possible penalties, including imprisonment, fines, probation, parole, community service, driver’s license suspension, a mark on your permanent record, and more. Retaining the services of an experienced Boston criminal defense attorney like Thomas A. Brant is the best way to reduce your chances of being sentenced to these and other criminal penalties.
- Could I face the death penalty?
As of right now, state crimes cannot be punishable with the death penalty. Life in prison without the possibility of parole is the most serious penalty you could face for committing a felony crime against the state. However, the federal government still prosecutes capital cases within Massachusetts. For more information about the death penalty in Massachusetts, please don’t hesitate to contact Boston criminal lawyer Thomas A. Brant.
- When should I involve an attorney?
When faced with criminal charges, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced Boston criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Even if you have yet to be formally charged with a crime, an attorney can still protect your rights, and provide you with invaluable advice and guidance. At the very least, an attorney can review your case, explain your rights under the law, and discuss your best options for fighting your particular charges. You can also look at it this way: if you think you need a lawyer, you probably do, and it won’t hurt you to contact an attorney to find out if his services are necessary.
Contact Boston Criminal Defense Attorney Thomas A. Brant to discuss your case today!