Felony Attorney Las Vegas
Serious Felony Charges Require Serious Defense
If you or someone you care about is facing a felony charge in Las Vegas, you are dealing with a situation that can change the rest of your life. Prison time, a permanent record, and lasting damage to your reputation and career are all real possibilities. You should not have to face the Nevada criminal justice system alone.
At Christiansen Trial Lawyers, we represent people accused of serious crimes in Las Vegas and across Nevada. Since 1995, our firm has focused on high stakes litigation, and our attorneys bring more than 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We are trial lawyers at our core, and we prepare felony cases with the expectation that they may be decided in a courtroom.
Our team has handled hundreds of jury trials in state and federal courts. This background helps us evaluate charges, understand how local judges and prosecutors approach serious cases, and provide clear, honest guidance from the very first conversation.
You can contact us any time for a free, no-pressure consultation or by calling (702) 357-9977.
Why Felony Charges Demand Trial Lawyers
Felony convictions in Nevada can bring years in state prison, heavy fines, and strict supervision after release. A conviction can also affect employment, professional licenses, housing, firearm rights, and in some situations immigration status. When that much is on the line, you need a defense team that treats your case as more than paperwork.
Many felony cases in Clark County resolve through negotiation, but the strength of any negotiation usually depends on how prepared the defense is for trial. Prosecutors pay close attention to which firms actually take serious cases before juries. When they know a defense team is ready to challenge evidence, cross examine witnesses, and present a full defense, it can shape how they evaluate plea offers.
Our attorneys have participated in hundreds of jury trials across Nevada and in federal courts. That trial tested experience informs each decision we make, from early investigation through motions and, when necessary, trial. We build cases with the long view in mind, which means looking for constitutional problems, evidentiary issues, and factual weaknesses that can affect both negotiations and what happens in front of a jury.
We also believe in honest, direct communication about risk. We explain the potential sentencing ranges, what factors may increase or decrease exposure, and which outcomes may be realistic based on the facts and the court where your case is filed. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make decisions, instead of pushing you toward a plea that does not reflect your interests.
How We Defend Felony Cases
When you contact us after a felony arrest or when you learn that you are under investigation, we move first to understand the situation and the timeline you are facing. In Clark County, many felony cases begin with an arrest and initial appearance in Las Vegas Justice Court, followed by proceedings that may include a preliminary hearing or a grand jury proceeding and then possible transfer to Clark County District Court for trial. The specific path depends on how prosecutors choose to move forward.
Early in a case, our attorneys review the charging documents, police reports, and available discovery to understand exactly what the state or federal government claims happened. We look at how the evidence was obtained, whether law enforcement followed constitutional requirements, and whether there are factual gaps or inconsistencies that can be developed. We discuss your side of the story and any background information that may help us understand the context of the charges.
Throughout this process, you work directly with experienced trial lawyers, not junior staff. We explain what each hearing means, what could happen, and what we will be watching for. When appropriate, we file motions to challenge the legality of searches, statements, identifications, or other evidence. Careful pretrial work can limit what the prosecution can present or create leverage for more favorable resolutions.
In the early stages of a felony case, we often focus on steps such as:
- Reviewing charging documents and reports to identify the allegations and potential penalties.
- Requesting discovery from the prosecution and examining how key evidence was obtained.
- Advising you on what to say and what not to say to law enforcement, employers, and others.
- Preparing for initial hearings in Las Vegas Justice Court or Clark County District Court and discussing potential outcomes.
- Evaluating whether early negotiations make sense or whether we should continue building toward motions and trial.
As the case progresses, we keep you informed and involved. We talk through the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence, potential defense strategies, and the practical impact of any plea offers. Some cases may be resolved through reduced charges or alternative sentencing, while others may need to be decided at trial. In either situation, our preparation is driven by the same goal, protecting your rights and future as fully as we can.
Types Of Felony Cases We Handle
Felony charges in Nevada cover a wide range of circumstances, from accusations of violence to complex financial allegations. At Christiansen Trial Lawyers, we focus on serious, life changing cases. Many of our clients are facing criminal charges for the first time, and others are visitors who never expected to be dealing with the criminal courts here.
Our criminal defense team handles violent felony accusations, such as assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, and homicide related charges. These cases often carry the possibility of lengthy prison sentences, and they typically involve detailed factual disputes about what happened and why. We work to examine witness accounts, forensic evidence, and law enforcement procedures with a careful eye.
We also defend people accused of drug related felonies, including distribution or trafficking level offenses, as well as felony DUI charges that may involve prior convictions or serious injuries. These cases can raise issues related to traffic stops, searches, and the reliability of testing methods. In addition, we represent clients in white collar and fraud related matters and theft crimes that can affect professional reputations and business interests.
Our broader litigation background helps when felony charges intersect with civil liability, business disputes, or regulatory problems. We have been trusted by clients from Nevada, other states, and other countries when allegations arise in the Las Vegas area. Whether you live locally or were arrested while visiting, we work to guide you through the same courts, including Las Vegas Justice Court and Clark County District Court.
What To Do After A Felony Arrest
A felony arrest can feel overwhelming, especially if you are taken into custody in Las Vegas or receive a call from a detective asking you to come in for an interview. What you do in the hours and days after learning about an investigation can affect how strong your defense will be.
The most important step is to protect your rights. You have the right to remain silent, and you are not required to answer questions about the allegations without a lawyer present. Speaking with law enforcement without legal advice can create statements that prosecutors later try to use against you, even if you were trying to cooperate or clear up a misunderstanding.
If you have been arrested or contacted by law enforcement, consider these steps:
- Avoid discussing your situation with officers, friends, or online without first speaking to a defense attorney.
- Write down important details, such as the agencies involved, where the incident occurred, and any potential witnesses.
- Keep paperwork related to your arrest, release conditions, or upcoming court dates in a safe place.
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible so you can understand what to expect in court and what options you may have.
- Talk with your attorney before deciding whether to speak with investigators or accept any offers.
We know that arrests and charging decisions do not follow business hours. Our firm offers free consultations and is available around the clock so that you and your family can get answers quickly. We also provide legal services in English and Spanish, which allows many clients to discuss sensitive details in the language that feels most comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I go to prison for my felony charge?
Not every felony conviction results in prison, but many carry that possibility. The outcome depends on the charge, your history, the facts, and the court. We review these factors with you and explain potential ranges so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
How will your attorneys handle my case in Las Vegas?
We start by reviewing the charges and evidence, then we examine how law enforcement and prosecutors built their case. Our attorneys appear with you in Las Vegas courts, discuss options at each stage, and prepare for both negotiations and trial so your defense stays focused and strategic.
How quickly can I speak with a lawyer?
You can usually speak with a lawyer very quickly after contacting us. We offer 24/7 availability for urgent criminal matters and free consultations, so you do not have to wait for regular office hours to ask questions about an arrest or upcoming hearing.
Will I work directly with an experienced attorney?
Yes, our clients work directly with experienced trial lawyers throughout their cases. While our staff assists with support tasks, our attorneys remain hands on and are responsible for evaluating evidence, appearing in court, and discussing important decisions with you from start to finish.
Can you help if I was arrested while visiting Las Vegas?
Yes, we often represent people who live outside Nevada but were arrested while visiting Las Vegas. We explain how local courts handle cases for out of state defendants and communicate with you and your family remotely while we work to protect your rights here.
Talk With Our Felony Defense Team
If you are facing a felony charge in Las Vegas or anywhere in the surrounding area, your future is too important to leave to chance. You deserve a defense team that understands Nevada’s criminal courts, takes the time to prepare your case, and gives you straight answers about what you are facing.
At Christiansen Trial Lawyers, our attorneys bring more than 120 years of combined experience and hundreds of jury trials to every serious criminal matter. We are committed to personal attention, clear communication, and thorough preparation in Clark County courts. Our consultations are free, we are available 24/7, and we can speak with you in English or Spanish, depending on your needs.
Call (702) 357-9977 to speak with our team today.
