When The Charges Are Serious, Turn To A

Lawyer You Can Trust

Photo of Mark B. Arthur

When The Charges Are Serious, Turn To A

Lawyer You Can Trust

Free consultations
for criminal cases

Skilled Felony Lawyer in Virginia Is on the Case

A felony conviction has serious consequences. It can put you in prison. And it becomes part of your permanent record, potentially preventing you from getting a job or buying a house. If you have been arrested, what you do next and how you do it can profoundly affect the outcome of your case — and the rest of your life. Give the police your name and address and politely ask to call an attorney. Do not resist arrest and do not say or consent to anything other than getting fingerprinted.

If the previous paragraph describes a situation that you or a loved one has recently faced, contact my office. You may think that your case is hopeless; however, there are still many things I can do as a Lynchburg felony lawyer to get your charges dropped or reduced.

Basic Information About Felonies And Their Penalties

There are six felony classes and corresponding penalties.

Class 1 Felony — The only Class 1 Felony in Virginia is premeditated murder with special circumstance. The penalty can be the death sentence or life imprisonment or a fine of no more than $100,000.

Class 2 Felony — Examples include murder and burglary with a deadly weapon. The penalty is 20 years to life imprisonment or a fine of no more than one $100,000.

Class 3 Felony — Examples include shooting, stabbing or attempting to poison someone. The penalty is 5-20 years imprisonment or a fine of no more than one $100,000.

Class 4 Felony — Examples include embezzlement and arson of an unoccupied building. The penalty is 2-10 years imprisonment or a fine of no more than one $100,000.

Class 5 Felony — Examples include involuntary manslaughter and extortion. The penalty is 1-10 years imprisonment and a $2,500 fine.

Class 6 Felony — Examples include animal cruelty and repeat larcenies. The penalty is 1-5 years imprisonment and a $2,500 fine.

Unclassified Felonies — In Virginia, certain crimes, such as rape, robbery or grand larceny, are called “unclassified felonies.” The fines and penalties for “class U” felonies vary depending on the statute of the crime the person was charged with.

If you are charged with a felony, you need to contact a criminal law attorney as soon as possible. Knowledge, skill and experience as an attorney are important to fighting your case. I possess all these characteristics, having spent a number of years as a prosecutor before becoming a criminal defense attorney. I am well respected in the courthouse and know exactly how the system works, which allows me to stay a step ahead when preparing and presenting your case.

Get Prompt And Skilled Representation Today

Mark B. Arthur, Attorney at Law serves Lynchburg City, Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Campbell, Pittsylvania, Prince Edward and Nelson Counties. Mark is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and in the evening and on weekends by appointment. He can be reached at 434-338-7028 or via the firm’s contact us page. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your criminal case.