Protecting Your Future Against Criminal Charges
A criminal accusation can have a profound impact on your life. If you're facing criminal charges, it's natural to feel uncertain about your future. A conviction could lead to incarceration, hefty fines, and long-term consequences affecting your personal, professional, and financial well-being. After a conviction, you may be required to disclose your record on job, loan, or rental applications, and it could even be used against you in a custody dispute.
At McGill Law, we understand how overwhelming and frightening this experience can be. The fear of losing everything you've worked for is real, and we're here to help. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are committed to protecting your rights at every stage—from investigation and questioning to trial and, if necessary, appeal.
The Importance of Legal Representation
You don’t have to wait until charges are filed to seek legal counsel. Many cases begin with an investigation and interrogation before formal charges are even issued. If law enforcement questions you or reads your Miranda rights, you have the right to remain silent and request an attorney. Exercising this right early can be crucial to your defense.
Once charges are filed, building a strong defense strategy is essential. Every case is different, but an effective defense considers both the nature of the allegations and the strength of the prosecution’s evidence. Whether pursuing plea negotiations or taking your case to trial, we work with you to develop the best approach based on your goals. Our tiered pricing structure allows you to decide how you want us to advocate for you.
Felony Penalties in Nebraska
Felonies in Nebraska are crimes punishable by more than one year of imprisonment. Nebraska Revised Statute § 28-105 categorizes felonies into four classes, ranging from Class IV (the least severe) to Class I (the most serious). Below are the penalties for each felony class:
Class I Felony – Death penalty
Class IA Felony – Life sentence
Class IB Felony – 20 years to life in prison
Class IC Felony – 5 to 50 years in prison
Class ID Felony – 3 to 50 years in prison
Class II Felony – 1 to 50 years in prison
Class IIA Felony – Up to 20 years in prison
Class III Felony – Up to 4 years in prison, 2 years post-release supervision, a $25,000 fine, or both
Class IIIA Felony – Up to 3 years in prison, 18 months post-release supervision, a $10,000 fine, or both
Class IV Felony – Up to 2 years in prison, 12 months post-release supervision, a $10,000 fine, or both
Certain circumstances can enhance charges, increasing penalties. A felony conviction can also result in the loss of firearm rights and voting restrictions for a period of time.
Misdemeanor Penalties in Nebraska
Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies and often carry shorter sentences, with some cases eligible for alternative sentencing such as diversion programs or probation. Nebraska Revised Statute § 28-106 defines seven misdemeanor classes:
Class I Misdemeanor – Up to 1 year in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both
Class II Misdemeanor – Up to 6 months in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both
Class III Misdemeanor – Up to 3 months in jail, a $500 fine, or both
Class IIIA Misdemeanor – Up to 7 days in jail, a $500 fine, or both
Class IV Misdemeanor – Up to a $500 fine
Class V Misdemeanor – Up to a $100 fine
Class W Misdemeanor – Typically related to DUI offenses, with penalties varying based on prior convictions
Take Action Today
The sooner you seek legal guidance, the better your chances of securing the best possible outcome. Whether you are under investigation or already facing charges, our team is ready to defend your rights. Contact us today to discuss your case.
HELP STARTS HERE | Contact McGill Law today at (402) 548-5418 for a confidential consultation