Felony Criminal Attorney – Sacramento & Surrounding Areas
Chastaine & Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys
Facing a felony charge is one of the most serious and stressful situations anyone can endure. Your future, freedom, career, and reputation are all on the line. At Chastaine & Jones, we understand what’s at stake. Our firm is dedicated to providing powerful, strategic defense for individuals accused of felonies throughout Sacramento and neighboring areas such as Roseville, Gold River, Citrus Heights, Rancho Cordova, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Auburn, Rocklin, and Elk Grove.
With decades of combined experience, our attorneys have successfully defended thousands of clients in the courtroom and at the negotiation table. We are profoundly familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures, giving our clients an edge at every stage of their case.
Types of Felony Charges We Handle
Felonies carry the most severe penalties under California law. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction can result in state prison, large fines, loss of rights, and lasting consequences. Chastaine & Jones handles a full range of felony charges, including:
Violent Crimes
• Assault with a deadly weapon
• Armed and unarmed robbery
• Aggravated battery
• Domestic violence
• Manslaughter and murder
• Juvenile Crimes
• Kidnapping and torture
• Arson
Sex Crimes
• Sexual assault and rape
• Sexual battery
• Possession or distribution of child pornography
• Child molestation
• Statutory rape
• Lewd acts with a minor
• Failure to register as a sex offender
• Juvenile sex crimes
• Human trafficking
• Indecent exposure
• Use of AI or deepfake technology for sexual exploitation
Drug Offenses
• Drug trafficking
• Drug possession
• Possession with intent to sell
• Operating a drug manufacturing facility
• Repeat drug felony charges
Theft and Property Crimes
• Grand theft (including vehicle and firearm theft)
• Burglary (residential and commercial)
• Shoplifting
• Arson
• Possession of stolen property
• Vandalism
White Collar Crimes
• Fraud and embezzlement
• Forgery
• Money laundering
• Insurance fraud
• Identity theft
• Cybercrime
Weapons Charges
• Illegal possession of firearms
• Felon in possession of a weapon
• Unlawful sales or transfers
• Possession of an assault weapon
• Use of firearms during the commission of a felony
• Minor in possession of a firearm
• Possession of firearm on school grounds
• Gang-related firearm possession
DUI with Injury or Death
• Felony DUI involving bodily injury or multiple prior convictions
• Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated
• Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
Probation and Parole Violations
• New charges filed while on probation
• Violations that could trigger prison sentences or revoke parole
How We Defend Felony Cases
Every felony case is unique. We begin with a thorough investigation, gathering evidence and reviewing police reports, witness statements, and video footage. We identify any violations of your rights, such as unlawful searches, coerced confessions, or improper arrests.
Whenever possible, we challenge the evidence and work to have charges dismissed or reduced. We work with skilled investigators to develop facts that support strong defenses for our clients. If your case proceeds to trial, we build a compelling defense and present it clearly to a jury. Our attorneys are highly skilled negotiators and seasoned litigators, ready to fight for you in court or pursue the best possible plea deal based on the circumstances.
We appear regularly in courthouses throughout the region, including:
• Sacramento County Superior Court
• Placer County Courthouse in Roseville
• El Dorado Justice Center near Placerville
Local Focus, Personal Commitment
Our firm is deeply rooted in this community. We’ve helped clients in areas like Gold River, Orangevale, Granite Bay, Fair Oaks, Auburn, and Antelope through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. We know the local court systems and we care about the people we represent.
Whether your case is in downtown Sacramento, Roseville, or Placerville, we offer the same high level of commitment and professionalism.
What To Do If You’re Arrested
• Remain silent. Do not speak to the police without an attorney.
• Don’t talk on the phone about your charges.
• Ask for a lawyer immediately.
• Do not consent to searches of your home, car, or devices.
• Avoid social media. Don’t post anything that could be used against you.
• Call our office as soon as possible at (916) 378-1788 or contact us online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Felony Criminal Attorney (FAQ)
Facing felony charges can be overwhelming and confusing. Understanding your rights, the legal process, and what to expect is critical. The following frequently asked questions address common concerns for individuals charged with felonies in Sacramento and surrounding areas, helping you make informed decisions and protect your future.
You’ll first be arraigned in court, where the charges are read and you enter a plea. Bail is usually addressed at this stage. The case then proceeds to preliminary hearings, possible motions, and trial if no resolution is reached.
Yes, under certain circumstances. California law allows for some “wobbler” felonies to be reduced to misdemeanors by the judge or through a negotiated plea deal.
Remain calm, ask to speak with an attorney, and contact Chastaine & Jones immediately. We frequently handle cases from these communities and are familiar with local law enforcement and courts. You can reach our office at (916) 378-1788 or contact us online.
Depending on the case, defenses may include self-defense, lack of intent, mistaken identity, illegal search and seizure, or lack of evidence. We evaluate every angle to build the strongest possible defense.
It varies. Some cases resolve in weeks through dismissal or plea negotiation, while others may take several months or longer if they go to trial.
Not necessarily. Many felony cases are resolved before trial through dismissal, plea agreements, or diversion programs. However, if trial is the best route to protect your rights, we are fully prepared to take your case before a jury.
In some cases, yes. Expungement, post-conviction relief, and certificates of rehabilitation may be available depending on the charge and outcome. Our attorneys can guide you through your options.
Crimes may be classified as felonies based on factors such as the nature of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, or whether the crime involved weapons or vulnerable victims. Examples include murder, robbery, grand theft, drug sales, large-scale fraud, illegal firearm possession, and sex crimes involving minors. Under the 2025 laws, possessing or stealing goods worth over $950 with the intent to resell is also considered a felony.
A felony is a major offense that can lead to over a year in state prison, large financial penalties, or even life behind bars. In contrast, a misdemeanor is a less serious violation, typically punished by up to one year in county jail and smaller fines. The classification depends on how severe the crime is, whether it involves violence or weapons, and the person’s past criminal record.
Yes. A lawyer can help protect your rights, explain the legal process, challenge the evidence against you, and negotiate for reduced charges or a lighter sentence. Without legal representation, you risk facing the full weight of the justice system without the guidance and defense you need.
Contact Chastaine & Jones Today
We understand the fear and uncertainty that come with being charged with a felony. The sooner you act, the more options you may have to protect your rights and your future.
If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with a felony in Sacramento, Roseville, Gold River, or surrounding areas, call us for a confidential consultation at (916) 378-1788 or contact us online.
Contact Chastaine | Jones Today
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