Felony Crimes

Richmond Felony Defense Lawyer

Your Trusted Felony Defense Attorney in Central Virginia

Felonies are the most serious charges you'll ever face. Even the least severe felony comes with one to five years of prison time. When you're facing a felony, your most important task will be finding the best felony defense lawyer to represent you. The Richmond felony defense attorney at The Law Office of Paul C. Galanides, P.C. has decades of experience defending clients from serious charges at all levels in the Virginia court system—Attorney Paul C. Galanides can help.

Contact us today to learn how our Richmond felony defense attorney can defend you.

Why Choose a Former Prosecutor for Your Defense?

As a private defense lawyer, Mr. Galanides makes it his job to study judges and prosecutors in Richmond and the Central Virginia area. As a former prosecutor himself, he understands the ins and outs of developing the state's case against an accused felon. Today, he uses his knowledge of prosecutorial strategy to craft defenses specifically suited to his clients' needs. Since 1995, he has been the felony defense attorney in Richmond to turn to for results, getting charges dismissed or reduced or getting acquittals at trial.

Understanding Felony Charges in Virginia

Virginia law divides Felony charges into different classes, according to the severity of the potential punishment. Class 6 Felonies are the least severe and Class 1 Felonies are the most severe.

The classifications and penalties for Virginia felony offenses are as followings:

  • Class 6 felonies are the least severe classification of felonies. They are called "wobblers" because they might be reduced to a misdemeanor. The penalty for a Class 6 Felony is 1-5 years in prison and up to $2,500 in fines.
  • Class 5 felony crimes are slightly more serious than Class 6 and carry 1-10 years in prison and up to $2,500 in fines. They are also referred to as "wobblers" because they can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor.
  • Class 4 felony crimes may involve arson, kidnapping, prostitution, and manslaughter. The penalties for a Class 4 Felony include 2-10 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.
  • Class 3 felony crimes involve injuring someone through shooting, stabbing, or attempted poisoning. It carries a penalty of 5-20 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines
  • Class 2 felony crimes involve intentional and malicious actions. These offenses are severely penalized with 20 years to life in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.
  • Class 1 felonies are the most serious crimes in Virginia. Penalties for a Class 1 felony include mandatory life in prison, the death penalty, and/or $100,000 in fines.

Common Felony Offenses in Virginia

The following crimes can be charged as a felony in Virginia:

Defending Against Class 1 Felonies in Virginia

Class 1 Felonies (which include crimes like capital murder) are punishable by death and are also called Capital crimes. Attorney Paul C. Galanides was specifically trained to handle his first death penalty case in 1997. Since then he has been attorney of record for over two dozen death penalty cases. When facing the most serious charge in the criminal justice system, you need a class 1 felony lawyer with serious experience. You need the right lawyer, right now. Mr. Galanides has the skill and means to take cases no matter what is at stake.

If you've been convicted of a Class 1 Felony, you are at the beginning of a long battle to overturn your conviction on appeal. The Law Office of Paul C. Galanides, P.C. has represented clients at every level of the criminal justice system, filing direct appeals to argue for proper justice. When you need someone who can understand your needs at every level, who will transform your facts into a solid defense, call the firm’s Richmond felony defense attorney.

Call (804) 977-0110 or contact Mr. Galanides online. While quality representation isn't free, he offers a free initial consultation to help answer your questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Defense

What are the penalties for a Class 6 felony in Virginia?

In Virginia, a Class 6 felony is considered the least severe classification of felonies. If convicted, an individual faces a penalty of one to five years in prison and may be fined up to $2,500. These felonies are sometimes referred to as 'wobblers' because they can potentially be reduced to a misdemeanor under certain circumstances.

How does Attorney Paul C. Galanides' experience as a former prosecutor benefit my felony defense in Central VA?

Attorney Paul C. Galanides' prior experience as a prosecutor provides him with a unique perspective on how the state develops its case against individuals accused of felonies. His understanding of prosecutorial strategies allows him to craft tailored defenses for his clients, enhancing the chances of charge dismissals, reductions, or acquittals in Richmond and the Central Virginia area.

What should I consider when choosing a felony defense attorney in Central VA?

When selecting a felony defense attorney in Richmond, it's crucial to consider their experience, knowledge of local legal systems, and track record. Attorney Paul C. Galanides brings decades of experience, including insights as a former prosecutor, to provide robust defense strategies. His familiarity with judges and prosecutors in the area, coupled with a history of successful outcomes, makes him a compelling choice for those facing felony charges.

Can the Law Office of Paul C. Galanides, P.C. assist with appeals for felony convictions in Virginia?

Yes, the Law Office of Paul C. Galanides, P.C. is equipped to represent clients at every level of the criminal justice system, including filing direct appeals. With extensive experience in handling serious felony cases, including Class 1 felonies, the firm is committed to arguing for justice and working towards overturning wrongful convictions.

Why Choose Law Office Of Paul C. Galanides, P.C.?

  • A Zealous Advocate Defending Each and Every Client
  • Winning Case Formula: Practice, Preparation, and Purpose
  • Thorough Research to Best Serve Every Unique Case
  • Over 27 Years of Courtroom Experience

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“I'm inspired to fight for the rights our constitution guarantees us, and to attempt to truly make a difference.” - Paul C. Galanides

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Caring for Our Clients A Legacy of Positive Client Experiences
  • “"Mr. Galanides and Christian are amazing! I was falsely accused of a crime and 2 weeks after I hired him, I was exonerated.”
    Mr. Galanides and Christian are amazing! I was falsely accused of a crime and 2 weeks after I hired him, I was exonerated. They fought hard for my case and I would highly recommend. It was my first time needing to hire legal council. The prices were very reasonable and the professionalism was great! They made it very easy to deal with such a stressful situation. Christian was such a sweetheart!
    - Robert Edwards
  • “They fought for me with everything they had and I came out of it feeling so well cared for as a client. They go above and beyond in every aspect and care about their clients with fierce determination.”
    Paul and Lisa are the dream team when it comes to legal representation. I was in such a rough scary time and they managed to pull me back up and get my on my feet. I needed help and that's exactly what I got. They fought for me with everything they had and I came out of it feeling so well cared for as a client. They go above and beyond in every aspect and care about their clients with fierce determination. Lisa and Paul are unlike any other duo I have ever seen work together, they balance each other out perfectly and never settle for an outcome that doesn't meet the proper standards. Lisa is the hardest worker I have ever met, staying on top of deadlines and pushing you through to the finish line, she's the best support system out there, and Paul is extremely precise and his meticulous research won my case. I cannot recommend enough to anyone who is looking for a lawyer who will go to such lengths to defend you. Not only are Lisa and Paul amazing at what they do for your defense, they're also amazing people.
    - Jen Steward
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    Mr Galanides and his staff Ms Kelley treated my son as their own. Mr. Galanides kept us informed every step of the way. They are very professional, ethical, honest and effective. I highly recommend Mr Galanides to anyone needing an attorney and very pleased with our son’s case results.
    - George
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    Paul and Lisa are AWESOME ! They went above and beyond for me on my case. They're worth every penny I spent hiring them. I would recommend them to everyone!
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