Felony Defense Attorneys in Columbia, Missouri
Facing a felony charge is a life-altering event that can affect your future in countless ways. These serious charges can lead to significant penalties, long-term consequences, and restrictions that follow you even after serving your sentence.
At Van Matre Law Firm, P.C., based in Columbia, Missouri, and serving clients throughout Jefferson City and mi-Missouri, we work with individuals who need to understand their options when dealing with felonies.
Knowing how Missouri law treats felonies can help you prepare for what lies ahead. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with us and protect your rights.
How Felonies Are Classified
In Missouri, felonies are divided into different classes that reflect the seriousness of the offense. The class determines both the potential penalties and the long-term consequences of a conviction. The classifications range from Class A felonies, which carry the most severe sentences, down to Class E felonies, which involve lighter punishments.
The difference between these classes is significant. Class A felonies may result in life imprisonment, while Class E felonies often carry shorter prison terms or probation. Understanding which class your charge falls into is critical because it sets the stage for sentencing, plea negotiations, and the strategies that may be available for defense.
Facing Felony Charges?
Rights Restrictions
A felony conviction doesn’t just affect sentencing—it can also result in the loss of certain civil rights. These restrictions often continue long after the case has ended, making it harder to move forward with your life. Some of the most common restrictions include:
Loss of voting rights: In Missouri, individuals convicted of a felony lose the ability to vote while serving their sentence.
Firearm restrictions: Felony convictions often lead to the permanent loss of the right to own or possess firearms.
Jury service limitations: Convicted felons are generally disqualified from serving on a jury.
Professional licensing barriers: Certain occupations, such as nursing, teaching, or finance, may not be available after a felony conviction.
Travel restrictions: Some felony convictions may impact the ability to travel internationally or obtain a passport.
These restrictions illustrate that a felony conviction has consequences beyond the courtroom. Recognizing these effects helps individuals understand why defense and post-conviction relief options are so important.
The Expungement Process
For some people, expungement offers the possibility of clearing a felony from their record. Missouri law allows limited expungement options, but eligibility depends on the type of felony and the circumstances surrounding the conviction. Not all charges can be cleared, and strict conditions must be met before filing a petition.
Typically, a waiting period applies before you can request expungement. During this time, all fines and restitution must be paid, and no additional criminal charges should be pending. If granted, expungement seals the record from public view, which can open doors for employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
While not everyone qualifies, exploring this process can make a significant difference in regaining stability after a conviction.
How Prior Convictions Affect Sentencing
When someone is charged with a felony in Missouri, the court looks closely at their prior criminal history. Repeat convictions often lead to harsher penalties, since the law views repeat behavior as an indication of higher risk. This is why sentencing for repeat offenders can be more severe than for first-time offenders. Factors that may influence sentencing include:
Number of prior convictions: Multiple past offenses can increase the likelihood of a longer sentence.
Type of prior offenses: Violent or serious felonies in a person’s history may weigh heavily against them.
Timing of prior convictions: More recent convictions often carry greater weight than those from many years ago.
Pattern of behavior: Courts may consider whether a person has shown repeated disregard for the law.
Sentencing enhancements: Missouri law allows longer sentences if certain prior convictions are present.
These considerations show why criminal history matters during sentencing. Having a prior record can change the outcome of a case significantly, which makes building a strong defense strategy especially important for those with earlier convictions.
Seeking Employment With a Felony Conviction
Finding employment after a felony conviction is often one of the biggest challenges individuals face. Many employers conduct background checks, and convictions may raise concerns during the hiring process. However, there are still opportunities available, and knowing your rights is important.
Several factors can influence employment prospects after a felony, such as the type of offense, how much time has passed, and whether the record has been expunged. Some employers are more open to hiring individuals with past convictions, particularly in industries where the offense doesn’t directly relate to the work.
Being prepared to address the issue honestly and showing steps you’ve taken to move forward can help during the job search.
Felony Probation Information
Not every felony conviction results in immediate incarceration. In many cases, probation may be an option, allowing individuals to remain in the community under supervision instead of serving time in prison. Probation involves strict conditions, and failure to comply can result in revocation and additional penalties.
Conditions of probation can vary depending on the case but often include requirements such as meeting with a probation officer, attending treatment programs, paying fines, and avoiding new arrests.
Successfully completing probation allows individuals to avoid prison time and demonstrate their ability to rebuild their lives. Because probation is often a second chance, following all requirements is essential.
Financial Consequences of a Felony Conviction
A felony conviction often creates serious financial challenges that extend well beyond the courtroom. Individuals may face heavy fines, restitution to victims, and court costs, which add to the burden of probation or incarceration. These expenses can be difficult to manage, particularly when paired with the loss of income during legal proceedings.
The impact doesn’t stop there—many people find it harder to secure steady employment after a felony, which makes rebuilding financial stability even more difficult. Limitations on job opportunities, combined with ongoing obligations like restitution, can leave lasting financial strain long after a sentence is complete.
The Benefits of Hiring Our Legal Representation
Working with a lawyer provides valuable guidance during the felony process. Felony charges are serious, and the penalties can affect nearly every part of your future. Having legal representation helps you understand the charges, explore possible defenses, and pursue options such as probation or expungement when available.
Our firm focuses on protecting the rights of clients at every stage. From the initial charge to sentencing and post-conviction relief, we work to reduce the impact of a felony conviction and provide clear advice about the steps you can take. With the right guidance, individuals facing felonies can make informed decisions that shape a better future.
Why Choose Our Firm?
Selecting a law firm to represent you in felony cases is an important decision. At Van Matre Law Firm, P.C., we’re committed to providing honest guidance, careful preparation, and dedicated service. We understand how overwhelming felony charges can feel and provide clarity about the options available under Missouri law.
Every case is handled with attention to detail, and we remain available to answer questions throughout the process. Whether you’re seeking a defense against current charges, probation alternatives, or post-conviction relief, our firm is prepared to stand by your side. Choosing our firm means working with a legal advocate who values your future and your rights.
Felony Defense Attorneys Serving Columbia, Missouri
Felonies in Missouri carry serious consequences, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Van Matre Law Firm, P.C., we serve clients in Columbia, Jefferson City, and throughout mid-Missouri. We’re here to guide you through the process and discuss the options that may apply to your situation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with us.