When facing new criminal charges, your previous convictions will almost always impact your current case. From issues with credibility to whether you get bail or not, you will face issues in the court process if you have prior convictions.
Fortunately, there are ways to limit the impact of those convictions if you have the right legal help. A skilled lawyer from John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm can help you navigate the legal system by addressing any problems that come up and protecting your rights every step of the way.
How Prior Convictions Affect Criminal Defense Cases
Prior convictions can have various effects on your criminal defense case, impacting both the legal proceedings and the potential outcomes. Some of the most common ways prior convictions will affect your criminal defense case include:
Increased Bail
When assessing bail amounts, judges often consider an individual’s criminal history, viewing those with previous offenses as potential flight risks or repeat offenders. This consideration can lead to significantly higher bail amounts, making it difficult for you to secure your release prior to trial. Such increased bail amounts can place immense pressure on you and your family, especially if financial resources are limited.
The implications of increased bail extend beyond mere financial burden. Being unable to post bail may hinder your ability to participate actively in your defense preparation. It’s important to work with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who can argue for reasonable bail conditions based on the specifics of your case and any mitigating factors that may apply.
Mandatory Sentence Enhancements
When you face new charges, your previous convictions can lead to automatic increases in the severity of your sentencing. These enhancements are often applied for repeat offenses, meaning that if your current charge is similar to past convictions, the penalties can escalate dramatically.
Mandatory sentence enhancements can also limit your options for plea deals, as prosecutors may be less inclined to negotiate favorable terms when prior convictions are present. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you navigate these complexities, advocating for the best possible outcome while considering the implications of your past offenses.
Mandatory Sentencing for Repeat Offenders
For repeat offenders, mandatory sentencing laws can impose strict penalties that significantly affect the outcome of your criminal defense case. If your prior convictions fall within the same category as your current charges, the law may require the imposition of a minimum sentence that is substantially more severe than what a first-time offender would face.
The implications of mandatory sentencing can be profound, often leaving little room for leniency or alternative sentencing options. Consequently, it becomes imperative to work closely with your criminal defense attorney to explore all available avenues for mitigating these harsh outcomes.
Fewer Plea Deal Options
Having prior convictions can lead to fewer plea deal options, which can complicate your defense strategy significantly. Prosecutors may be less willing to offer favorable plea deals to individuals with a history of criminal behavior, as they may perceive you as a persistent offender. This perception can limit your ability to negotiate, potentially forcing you to go to trial rather than accepting a plea that could mitigate the consequences of a conviction.
The reduction in available plea deals also heightens the stakes of your case, making it essential to collaborate closely with your criminal defense attorney. They can help assess the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case against you while exploring any possible alternatives that might still be available.
Get Help From a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have previous convictions, it’s important to work with a criminal defense attorney to manage your case. Previous convictions can change the way you handle your case, and having an experienced lawyer on your side can make a big difference in the outcome. The key is having an experienced criminal defense attorney who can adjust your defense and compensate for any issues that come up.
Give yourself a better chance at beating the charges by working with an experienced criminal defense attorney. The John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm is here to help you build a strong defense against criminal charges. Call us at (318) 377-1555 or use our contact form.