First Degree Felony

First Degree Felony in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, also known as F1, represents the most severe crimes one can commit. If you have been arrested and charged with a first-degree felony, it is crucial to seek immediate assistance from an experienced and devoted Pittsburgh Criminal Attorney.

In the United States, crimes are classified into two major categories: felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies, being the most serious offenses, are further divided into three degrees. Among these degrees, first-degree felonies hold the utmost gravity, while third-degree felonies are considered the least severe.

Being found guilty of a first-degree felony can result in a prison sentence of up to twenty years. This not only entails losing your freedom but also presents additional challenges, such as concerns about the well-being and support of your family and children. Hence, consulting a Pittsburgh DUI attorney is of paramount importance when facing such charges.

Even after your release from prison, the consequences of your crime will continue to linger. Convicted felons often face difficulty securing decent employment as many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with a criminal record. Additionally, you will be prohibited from owning a firearm or serving in the military.

What Do You Mean, “First-Degree Felony”?

Among all felonies, first-degree offenses bear the harshest penalties:

• Imprisonment for up to twenty years
• Fines of up to $25,000.

Examples of offenses falling under the first-degree felony category include:

• Rape
• Voluntary manslaughter
• Kidnapping
• Aggravated assault on a prison employee, police officer, or court officer.

Grading a Sentence

Determining the punishment for a first-degree felony involves considering multiple factors.

In Pennsylvania, the sentencing guidelines require assigning every crime an Offense Gravity Score (OGS). The OGS is a numerical representation of the severity of the crime, with higher numbers indicating more significant offenses.

Additionally, your prior criminal record influences the sentencing process. It is assigned a score known as the Prior Record Score (PRS), with higher scores reflecting more prior convictions.

The sentencing judge takes into account your prior criminal record and the OGS score when determining your sentence. If your OGS score is low and you have few previous convictions, your guideline sentence will be shorter. However, Pennsylvania trial judges have discretionary power and can deviate from the guidelines if there are mitigating or aggravating factors.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

Certain offenses carry mandatory minimum punishments. This means that the judge is required to sentence you to a specific number of years in prison, regardless of any mitigating or aggravating factors. Therefore, even if it’s your first criminal offense with no prior convictions, the judge must impose the minimum sentence.

How Can a Criminal Lawyer in Pittsburgh Help You?

At the Logue Law Group, our team of skilled Pittsburgh criminal lawyers will provide a comprehensive understanding of the charges against you. They will diligently search for any mitigating factors that can work in your favor and craft a compelling defense strategy. It is crucial not to face these charges alone.

If you are facing a felony charge, we strongly advise contacting one of our experienced criminal defense lawyers from the Pittsburgh firm of Logue Law Group. You can reach us at 844.PITT.DUI or connect with us online. Remember, time is of the essence, and hiring a Pittsburgh DUI lawyer promptly will greatly benefit your case.

To Learn More About Pennsylvania Offense Classes and Gravity Scores

For detailed information on Pennsylvania offense classes and gravity scores, refer to Title 204, Chapter 303 of the Pennsylvania Criminal Code.