Felony Attorney in American Fork
Facing Felony Charges? Your Local Legal Defense Partner
When your future is at stake, every decision matters. As a felony attorney in American Fork, Stevens & Gailey, PLLC offers clarity, responsive support, and tailored defense strategies so you never have to face charges alone. With more than 30 years of combined legal experience, our felony lawyers help clients navigate Utah’s challenging criminal justice system—including the distinct procedures of Utah County courts—while prioritizing your rights and peace of mind at each step.
Dealing with felony accusations in the American Fork area can bring long-lasting consequences—impacting your career, family life, and personal reputation. Our team is invested in guiding you through each stage, from your first consultation to the resolution of your case. We identify the local factors that can affect your matter, answer urgent questions promptly, and communicate clearly, so you can make confident decisions from day one. At every point, we focus on protecting your best interests, inside and outside the courtroom.
We regularly defend clients charged with:
- Drug distribution, possession with intent to distribute, and manufacturing crimes
- Felony DUI, aggravated assault, robbery, and other violent offenses
- Theft, burglary, fraud, or embezzlement-related felonies
- Sex-based offenses and internet-related felonies
- Violent & white-collar crimes
As your American Fork felony lawyer, our firm offers flexible payment plans and bilingual services in English and Spanish. We are ready to listen to your story and begin building a strong defense. Call us at (801) 761-2124 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation.
Understanding Utah's Felony Classifications and Penalties
In Utah, felony crimes are those punishable by more than one year in state prison. The severity of the crime and the corresponding penalties are determined by a four-tiered classification system. A skilled American Fork felony lawyer must have a comprehensive understanding of these classifications to build an effective defense and negotiate a favorable outcome.
- Capital Felony: This is the most severe crime in Utah, punishable by a minimum of 25 years to life imprisonment, life imprisonment without parole, or the death penalty. It is reserved for crimes such as aggravated murder.
- First-Degree Felony: This is the highest level of non-capital felony. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of five years to life, along with a fine of up to $10,000. Examples include aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, and rape.
- Second-Degree Felony: A conviction can lead to a prison sentence of one to 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples include manslaughter, aggravated assault, and burglary.
- Third-Degree Felony: This is the lowest class of felony. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to five years and a fine of up to $5,000. Examples include aggravated assault and some drug offenses.
Our firm is experienced in defending against all levels of felony charges. We will carefully analyze the specific charge against you and determine if we can fight to have it reduced to a lesser felony or even a misdemeanor. As your felony attorney in American Fork, we will work tirelessly to mitigate the severe penalties you are facing.
Our Step-By-Step Felony Defense Process in American Fork
Here’s a look at what to expect when you trust your felony case to our team:
- Initial Consultation: We discuss your charges, circumstances, and goals in a confidential setting—available in-person or online to fit your needs.
- Investigation & Case Assessment: Our legal team thoroughly examines law enforcement reports, evidence, and witness information. We utilize technology to spot inconsistencies or violations that may benefit your defense.
- Preliminary Hearings: We appear in court on your behalf, challenge the case against you, and address issues with the prosecution or evidence.
- Plea Negotiations: Drawing on our experience with local prosecutors in American Fork and Utah County, we seek out the most favorable resolution available, whether through negotiations or diversionary options.
- Trial Preparation & Representation: If your case proceeds to trial, our attorneys represent your interests assertively, ensuring that all available defenses are presented and your rights are protected at each stage.
- Post-Trial & Appeals: When necessary, we provide advice on post-trial motions or appeal opportunities allowed under Utah law, with clear timelines and thorough explanations.
We know that legal challenges can continue even between court dates. That’s why our felony attorneys in American Fork strive to connect clients with resources that can make a difference—whether it’s pretrial supervision, counseling services, or rehabilitation programs.
We also highlight your background, personal achievements, and positive community involvement, which may help influence the outcome in court. You will never be left guessing about your case status; our team communicates consistently and keeps you equipped with the knowledge you need to participate fully in your defense.
Driven by integrity, compassion, & commitment Why Choose Stevens & Gailey, PLLC?
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Trusted AdvisorsWhether facing complex legal challenges or high-value disputes, you need a firm you can trust. With extensive experience and a reputation for excellence, we are here to guide you through every step with confidence and expertise.
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Unwavering CommitmentYour success is our priority. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to deliver the best possible outcomes, offering personalized attention and a strategic approach that’s always focused on your needs.
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Tailored StrategiesHandling complex, high-stakes cases requires a deep understanding of financial intricacies. We specialize in managing high-net-worth cases, crafting personalized legal strategies designed to protect your assets and interests.
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Bilingual Legal ExpertiseWe’re proud to offer legal services in both English and Spanish. Our bilingual team ensures that language is never a barrier to receiving top-tier legal representation, providing clear communication for all our clients.
The Felony Defense Process in Utah
The legal process for a felony case in Utah is a long and complex journey, and a single misstep can have a devastating impact on your future. We will be your guide and advocate every step of the way, ensuring you understand your rights and your options.
The process typically includes:
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: The process begins with an investigation and an arrest. Within a few days of your arrest, you will have an initial appearance in court. This is not the time to enter a plea; rather, it is when the judge determines whether to set bail. We will be there to argue for a reasonable bail amount so you can be released from custody while we build your defense.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony cases in Utah, a preliminary hearing is a crucial step. The prosecution must present enough evidence to convince a judge that there is probable cause to believe that a crime was committed and that you committed it. We will use this hearing to cross-examine witnesses and expose any weaknesses in the prosecution's case. A successful preliminary hearing can result in the charges being dismissed.
- Arraignment: If the case is "bound over" after the preliminary hearing, you will have an arraignment, where you will formally enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Discovery and Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation and obtain all the evidence the prosecution has against you, including police reports, witness statements, and any video or audio recordings. Our firm will also conduct our own investigation to find evidence that supports your defense.
- Plea Negotiations and Pre-Trial Motions: As your American Fork felony lawyer, we will engage in strategic negotiations with the prosecutor to secure the best possible plea deal. We will also file pre-trial motions to suppress any illegally obtained evidence.
- Trial: If a plea deal is not in your best interest, we will proceed to trial. We are experienced litigators who are prepared to present a strong and compelling defense to the jury.
- Sentencing: If you are convicted, we will present mitigating factors to the court to argue for the most lenient sentence possible.
Our firm is committed to providing you with a thorough and well-prepared defense at every stage of the process. A skilled felony attorney in American Fork is a necessity in this high-stakes environment.
Why Choose Our Felony Lawyer in American Fork
Our approach to felony defense cases combines deep knowledge of Utah’s criminal statutes, hands-on case preparation, and an unwavering commitment to personalized service. We provide tailored strategies that recognize the unique facts of your case and ensure you are never left in the dark about your options.
Whether you come to us in a time of crisis or to protect your record and future, you’ll benefit from a thorough, compassionate, and detail-driven process designed for your success.
- Extensive Experience: Decades spent serving individuals facing felony charges in Utah, with a dedication to defending your rights from start to finish.
- Personalized Communication: Upfront and ongoing updates. We truly listen to your concerns and respond with genuine understanding.
- Bilingual Services: Support in both English & Spanish for clients and their families.
- Flexible Consultations: In-person, virtual, and after-hours appointments available for your convenience.
- Affordable Payment Options: Fair fees and clear payment plans that make professional legal defense accessible in American Fork and throughout Utah County.
- Advanced Technology: Modern and secure tools keep your case organized and communications efficient.
Our clients appreciate that we offer straightforward guidance in a welcoming, judgment-free environment. Stevens & Gailey, PLLC takes the time to get to know your background and fully explain every phase of the Utah County court process.
Our felony defense team understands how legal challenges can affect your family, employment, and day-to-day life. We go beyond the courtroom—offering proactive communication, anticipating key issues, and keeping your needs central. When you work with our felony attorneys in American Fork, you receive representation that is honest, supportive, and always focused on your best interests.
Contact a Felony Attorney in American Fork Today
If you are facing felony charges in American Fork, timely legal advice and strong representation are crucial. Contact Stevens & Gailey, PLLC for a confidential consultation where we will openly discuss your options, outline a custom defense plan, and provide ongoing updates from a team you can trust. With flexible payment options and round-the-clock scheduling, our focus is on making your legal journey as smooth as possible.
Call (801) 761-2124 today to take a positive, informed step toward resolving your case and protecting your future.
