Felony Attorney in Las Vegas
Defending Your Rights Against Felony Charges
A felony is the most serious form of crime. Convictions can lead to a minimum of 1-year imprisonment and significant fines. These offenses are far more severe than misdemeanors, so facing a felony charge requires the assistance of a highly qualified felony attorney in Las Vegas to navigate the complexities of the legal system and build a strong defense.
Discuss your situation with our felony defense law firm in Las Vegas by contacting Goodman Law Group online or calling (702) 825-7854. Your initial consultation is free.
The Procedures of Felony Charges in Las Vegas
The Initial Appearance
- Appearing before the Justice of the Peace or magistrate, the charged individual should appear within 72 hours or 3 business days to start the legal process effectively.
- The prosecutor must inform the court whether the charges have been filed during the appearance.
- A criminal complaint will be handed to the defendant, and the court will ask if the defendant understands the charges.
- The court will determine if the defendant can retain legal counsel, which is crucial for a fair defense.
- The preliminary hearing date will be set by the court. If the defendant is in custody, the hearing would be scheduled within 15 days.
The Preliminary Hearing
One of the serious stages in the criminal system is the preliminary hearing, and legal representation is critical at this juncture. The preliminary hearing is a formal proceeding where the Justice of the Peace must be convinced by the prosecution that the defendant committed the crime, supported by evidence. The main purpose of the preliminary hearing is to determine if there's sufficient evidence to proceed to trial, which could significantly impact the legal trajectory. This procedure is also similar to a probable cause hearing where initial evidence is scrutinized.
Proceedings That Might Happen at a Preliminary Hearing:
- Witnesses and evidence presented by the prosecution
- Cross-examination of the witness by the defense to challenge the prosecution's claims
- If the prosecution demonstrates a scintilla of evidence before the Justice of the Peace, the case will proceed to the District Court, moving the case to trial stage
Indictment vs. Information
Indictment – This is a charging document approved by the grand jury. A grand jury is a secret proceeding where a jury hears evidence only from the prosecution side and makes a decision on whether there is enough evidence to proceed to a trial. The defense is not allowed to the grand jury proceedings and cannot present evidence at the proceeding. If the grand jury finds enough evidence they will give an Indictment.
Information – This is a sworn statement that accuses the defendant of committing a criminal act. An authorized public official presents the Information to the court, indicating there is sufficient reason to prosecute the defendant.
Indictment and Information are two methods used to charge the defendant with a crime, each with different implications on how the prosecution proceeds.
Why Choose Us: Expertise, Dedication, Results
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Comprehensive Criminal DefenseWhether facing charges for DUI, violent crimes, or white-collar offenses, Goodman Law Group provides aggressive representation with a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for clients in both state and federal courts.
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Local Expertise, National ImpactAs a lifelong Las Vegas resident, Ross C. Goodman’s deep knowledge of local laws, courts, and legal professionals gives his clients a distinct advantage, while his nationally recognized legal skills elevate his reputation beyond the state.
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Proven Track RecordWith nearly 30 years of experience and a history of high-profile victories, Ross C. Goodman is a top-tier criminal defense attorney, known for securing dismissals, "Not Guilty" verdicts, and favorable resolutions.
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Personalized, Successful DefenseEvery case at Goodman Law Group is handled with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring personalized strategies that have resulted in reduced sentences, acquittals, and alternative legal resolutions for thousands of clients.
Client Success Stories
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"Goodman is a life saver"Goodman is a life saver! I was in a seemingly hopeless situation and couldn’t have been treated any better by Ross and Tiffanie. He is the absolute best and is clearly respected in the courtroom. He was personally vested in my case and got me the best result possible. Thank you Ross!!!
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"Above and beyond my expectations."
Being faced with such a difficult situation was overwhelming, but your strategic approach and guidance provided both comfort and hope. Your commitment to my daughters case went above and beyond my expectations, and I am truly thankful for all the hard work you put into securing my daughters release from jail.
Your legal acumen and advocacy skills are truly remarkable, and I feel fortunate to have had you and Ross by my daughters side throughout this ordeal. Your guidance not only helped my daughter regain her freedom but also provided me with a better understanding of the legal process.
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"He got me an excellent result, better than I could have expected."I can't say enough good things about Ross and his team. He kept me fully informed, answered my questions promptly and personally, and was just there for me. I'd definitely recommend him without any hesitation.- Howard R.
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"We are extremely grateful!"Ross Goodman and his team took care of us during a very uncertain time and helped to guide us through the entire legal process. We greatly appreciate how his team, especially Tiffanie, communicated with us and went above and beyond on our behalf. We are extremely grateful! Thank you Ross!- Susan L.
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"Believe me when I say, he will stop at nothing to ensure that his clients are treated fairly and defended well."Attorney Goodman is a very personable person who operates with the utmost professionalism. Believe me when I say, he will stop at nothing to ensure that his clients are treated fairly and defended well. Thankfully, he was able to get my charges reduced. I would recommend him to anyone who finds themselves in a similar bind.- Nathaniel A.
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"Thanks to Mr. Goodman, my situation was resolved with the best possible outcome, and in record time! If you're looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Vegas, he's THE guy."I cannot say enough good things about Mr. Goodman. After being arrested at EDC, I contacted him to represent me in the resulting case. I was terrified of the potential consequences, but he worked his magic and got the case completely DISMISSED - an outcome that I never even dreamed of!
After consulting with a few other lawyers in the Vegas area, Mr. Goodman's professionalism was a breath of fresh air. He clearly knows the law and is very well connected in the city. Above all else, he relentlessly projects power and confidence in his conversations, a critical trait that every lawyer should have. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have negotiating on my behalf.
Thanks to Mr. Goodman, my situation was resolved with the best possible outcome, and in record time! If you're looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Vegas, he's THE guy. -
"He’s hands down the best attorney in Vegas!"Ross Goodman is truly in a league of his own. Once again, he got another one of my cases dismissed - this time a domestic violence charge that never should have been filed in the first place. From the very beginning, Ross treated the case with the seriousness and precision it deserved. He quickly identified the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, communicated clearly every step of the way, and fought relentlessly to protect my rights and reputation.
What sets him apart is his professionalism, integrity, and genuine commitment to getting justice for his clients. He doesn’t just settle, he wins with strategy, not luck! If you’re ever facing false or exaggerated charges, do yourself a favor and call Ross Goodman. He’s hands down the best attorney in Vegas! -
"I switched and hired Mr. Goodman and could not have been more impressed with the outcome. You do get what you pay for."I met with Mr. Goodman who answered all my questions and knew his stuff. I decided to hire a less expensive attorney but was not happy with the progress ended up being a waste of money with the other guy. I switched and hired Mr. Goodman and could not have been more impressed with the outcome. You do get what you pay for. I should have gone with my gut reaction at the beginning that would have saved me anxiety, time, and money. Don’t make the same mistake.
