When Charged With a Crime ®

Most people know that felonies are generally more serious crimes than misdemeanors. By definition, a felony is any offense that carries a potential sentence of more than one year of incarceration. Felonies range from insurance fraud, to robbery, to murder and a host of other crimes. They also include certain DUI convictions (for example, DUI causing injury or death). In some cases, felony charges can be reduced to misdemeanors.

In this video, San Diego criminal defense attorney Stefano L. Molea explains that there are other important consequences (in addition to prison and fines) if you are convicted of a felony. Some of those consequences are (a) ineligibility for certain federal programs; (b) inability to legally own or possess a firearm; and (c) your DNA being placed in a database. There is always the adverse effect on your ability to find employment as well as obtain or maintain professional licenses.

Finally, Stefano points out that being charged with a felony in state court, unlike a misdemeanor, will likely result in a preliminary hearing. Some, but not all, witnesses testify and are subject to cross examination. This can provide the defense with a "stress test" of the prosecution's case. In some situations, this may also provide the opportunity to have the felony reduced to a misdemeanor, or even dismissed. If you are facing a felony charge, or if you have questions about a felony investigation, we can help. Call us at 619-295-3555.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOODPS!

On April 15, 2010, the Law Office of David P. Shapiro commenced operations as a criminal defense law firm in San Diego. Eleven years later, we have great pleasure and pride continuing to help good people regain control of their future when charged with a crime. The attached video by Founder and Managing Partner David P. Shapiro outlines our history and goals over the next decade-plus.

Much has happened since the firm opened its doors 11 years ago, but the essence of the Firm's goals, and the quality of service we provide our clients, has not changed. We continue to help people who are facing serious criminal charges in San Diego; we continue to place them in the best possible position given the facts of their case; and we continue to walk them through the criminal justice system, many of whom are navigating the system for the first time. Most importantly, all of this is being done at a level few firms can come close to approaching, all to the benefit of our clients. 

“LOODPS” currently consists of three attorneys: Managing Partner David P. Shapiro; Partner Stefano L. Molea; and Associate Attorney Ally Keegan; as well as Legal Assistants Alyssa Rodriguez and Brooke Walker. Spoiler alert: the Firm’s first Director of Operations is scheduled to join the team in May. We thank all those who have called on the firm in their time of need and look forward to our continued growth and ability to help as many people as possible.