Major Felonies in Ventura & Santa Barbara

The most serious offenses under California law are felonies.  A felony conviction generally results in a significant amount of prison time.  If you are accused of a felony, you could lose your freedom, your finances, and your future if convicted.  You cannot afford to hire an inexperienced attorney to defend your rights.  

Ridley Defense founder Douglas H. Ridley is a former Ventura County Deputy District Attorney who was assigned to the felony unit during his tenure with the office.  He investigated and prosecuted numerous cases learning how the other side prepares a case and secures a conviction. Now, he uses that “insider knowledge” to help get his clients’ charges reduced and dismissed. 

If you are arrested for a felony crime in Southern California, you need an experienced team of litigators behind you.  Contact Ridley Defense today at (805) 208-1866 for a complimentary consultation.  Learn how we can help you and your family get through this difficult time.  We will not only represent you in the courtroom, but we will also help get you out of jail, find alternative sentencing, and fight to keep your professional license.

Misdemeanors Vs. Felonies

In California, most minor criminal matters are considered misdemeanors punishable by a fine and up to one (1) year in jail.  One of the most common misdemeanor offenses committed by everyday people is driving under the influence. More serious crimes are considered felony offenses that can carry a state prison sentence if convicted. 

Violent or serious felony convictions include:

• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Forcible Sodomy
• Rape
• Burglary of a residence
• Assault with the intent to commit robbery

Crimes that may otherwise be misdemeanors may be elevated to felony offenses depending on the circumstances.  

California’s Three Strikes Law

California’s Three Strikes Law was initially enacted on March 7, 1994.  There have been several amendments to the original act, including Proposition 36, which made substantial changes to the original sentencing laws. Codified into law under Penal Code 667, California’s Three Strikes law increases the sentencing for a person convicted of a serious felony who has previously been convicted of a serious felony, including a five-year enhancement for each prior conviction. 

Penal Code Section 1192.7 enumerates the serious felonies that may be considered part of the three-strikes law including but not limited to:

• Murder or voluntary manslaughter
• Mayhem
• Rape
• Sodomy by force
• Oral copulation by force
• Lewd or Lascivious Acts with a child under 14
• Kidnapping
• Burglary of the first degree
• Assault with a deadly weapon

Criminal Justice reform is ongoing in California and throughout the United States.  Lawmakers are continually reviewing current policies to determine if they are just or should be modified to serve the community better.

Turn to a Leading Southern California Felony Defense Attorney

An arrest for a major felony can devastate your family and ruin your future.  You need an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you understand the charges and possible defenses in your case.  The knowledgeable attorneys at Ridley Defense are here to help you and your family get through this difficult time. Not only are we your zealous advocate in the court, but we will also help you get your life back together.  Whether you need assistance with locating a loved one in custody, securing bail, or finding treatment for an underlying disorder, we can help. Contact Ridley Defense today before it is too late.  The sooner you retain our services, the sooner we can begin investigating the charges against you.

Call (805) 208-1866 for a complimentary consultation.