There are thirty states in the United States that use “three strike rules.” Read on to learn the basics of these rules and how they apply to you. These laws can greatly impact someone who has been arrested, especially individuals who have been accused of committing multiple felonies.
“Three strike laws” result in penalties and sentences that are longer than average. If an individual has been charged with and convicted of a crime on three separate occasions, this means they had their “three strikes,” and the result is often a life sentence in a state or federal incarceration facility.
Every state has different laws that govern the three strike sentences. Different states place three strikes on different crimes, call for different punishments, and decide which three strike laws are applied to misdemeanors, felonies, or sometimes both. Read on to learn more about these rules, and other similar ones, and be sure to schedule a free criminal case evaluation with Gianni Karmily if you have questions about an arrest or pending charges.
What Is The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act?
In 1994, the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act was passed at the federal level. At the time, it was the largest crime bill in the history of the country and provided for 100,000 new police
officers, $9.7 billion in funding for prisons and $6.1 billion in funding for prevention programs which were designed with significant input from experienced police officers.
As part of this act, the three strikes provision was introduced. The act states that if an individual committed three serious violent or drug related felonies, they would receive a life sentence in prison without parole. New York specifically refers to this mandate as the “persistent felony offender” law: “ A persistent felony offender is a person who stands convicted of a felony after having previously been convicted of two or more felonies.” In addition to drug crimes, the New York State legislature also passed a repeat offender law that puts strict consequences on drivers convicted of multiple driving while intoxicated charges within a 15 year span.
What Are Habitual Offender Laws?
Similar to three strike laws, habitual offender laws exist in many different states, just with different terms and conditions in each. With habitual offender laws, the time between two crimes being committed, the nature in which the crimes were committed, the severity of the crime and the judge’s ruling will all come into play.
The habitual offender law is harsh, and imposes a life sentence after being charged with a fourth felony, no matter how severe, violent, or nonviolent the felony was. In New York, the habitual offender law was amended to eventually become the three strikes law.
What Should I Do If I Have Been Charged With Multiple Crimes In New York?
Anyone who has been arrested or charged with a crime in New York needs to call a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to begin building a strong case for their defense. It’s not mandatory that you hire a lawyer, and under the United States Constitution you do have the right to defend yourself, but understand that you will be at a disadvantage if you are not aware of unique laws such as three strike laws, or habitual offender laws (in states where they are still in effect).
At the Law Firm of Gianni Karmily, Gianni Karmily and his experienced legal team will fight aggressively to make sure your rights are always upheld and that you get the strong, zealous legal representation that you deserve. We will examine the evidence, facts, and figures of your case to demonstrate your side of the story. Those who have been charged with multiple crimes in New York may be up against a tough legal system, but Gianni Karmily has the experience to help. With his extensive legal background, considerable courtroom experience, and an impressive record of success on behalf of his clients, attorney Gianni Karmily offers the effective, high-quality legal defense that you will need if you are facing criminal charges.
Call The Law Firm Of Gianni Karmily Today To Schedule A Free Criminal Case Consultation
The right to a jury trial is a fundamental right. At your trial, Hempstead defense lawyer Gianni Karmily will cast doubt on the state’s case against you and explain to the jurors why they should find you not guilty. Hempstead defense lawyer Gianni Karmily has a passion for justice, and he has established a reputation for tenacious, effective defense representation. If you are accused of a crime, he will guide you step-by-step through the legal process.
