If you are currently facing criminal charges and have a criminal record then you are likely not surprised to learn that your past convictions are likely to affect your current case. However, you may be surprised to learn the specifics about how your past can affect your future. At Chambers Law Firm we work hard to get you the fair treatment you deserve – despite any past transgressions on your part. Read on to learn how past criminal convictions can affect your case and then contact us at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation.
Your Criminal History Could Affect You Before the Trial Begins
Before you are even facing trial – before you are even arrested – your criminal history could already be affecting you. As the police and prosecutors look at your file to build a case, they will see any past convictions you have. They may be more likely to assume you are guilty of domestic violence if you have a past assault conviction.
Your criminal record will also be relevant as they are considering any plea bargains to offer you. When the prosecution decides how to charge you, you can count on your criminal history being relevant. This is true in cases involving the Three Strikes Law, but even something as minor as petty theft is likely to be charged more seriously when a person has a criminal history.
Your Criminal History Should Not Come Up During a Trial
If your case goes to trial then you may worry that the jury will assume you are guilty just because you have a criminal history. The good news is that the law accounts for this and in most cases past criminal behavior is not admissible as proof that you have committed a crime. There are exceptions, most notably if you choose to testify and the prosecutor uses your past convictions to imply that you are not credible. Of course, you are not required to testify and it is likely we will recommend that you do not.
Your Sentence Will Likely Reflect Past Convictions
When the judge hands down a sentence, they are very likely to consider your past convictions. The law sees a repeat offender as more deserving of harsh punishment and will hand out sentences accordingly. When you have an attorney like Chambers Law Firm you can count on us to fight tirelessly to get the judge to offer the most lenient sentence and to understand the circumstances of your past conviction.
The Right Attorney Can Help Negate the Effects of Your Criminal History
One of the many reasons that you need a qualified criminal defense attorney is because we can ensure that you are given a fair trial and that your past convictions are not given more weight than they should. If you have been charged with a crime, whether it is your first or 20th, we invite you to contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 now for a free legal consultation.
