Empower Yourself, Know Your Rights

  1. Home
  2.  | 
  3. Criminal Defense
  4.  | If you face enhanced charges, you need to have a strong defense

If you face enhanced charges, you need to have a strong defense

On Behalf of | Aug 24, 2020 | Criminal Defense |

In the past, you made some decisions you’re not proud of. You’ve lived and learned, and you’ve moved on.

You didn’t expect to face charges ever again, but now you’re being accused of assaulting a woman you went out on a date with. You know you’re innocent, but because of the allegations, you could be seen as a repeat offender and face enhanced penalties.

What happens if you’re charged for a felony as a recidivist?

If you are charged as a recidivist, it means that you have a history of committing crimes and are a persistent offender. According to the provisions in Missouri’s statutes, you may be charged with enhanced sentences possible if you are a persistent offender. You may also face a maximum prison sentence as a result of being a repeat offender.

The recommended sentence for the offense you committed may be charged one or two classes higher than if this was the first time you were charged or if you were not being charged as a recidivist.

As an example, a Class A offense may be charged at one level higher. If this is a high severity crime, then it may be higher than that.

If you commit a dangerous felony, you could also face extended terms in prison or greater penalties. Dangerous felonies include charges such as:

  • Child kidnapping
  • Statutory rape if the victim was under 12
  • Arson in the first degree
  • Assault in the first degree
  • Child kidnapping
  • Parental kidnapping for over 119 days
  • Robbery in the first degree

…and others. If you are facing these charges or others that may lead to enhanced penalties, it’s a good idea to work with your defense attorney early in your case. You need to protect your rights and fight for your freedoms.