Sanders County Felony Charge Defense Attorneys with Local Courtroom Experience
A felony charge in Sanders County can turn your life upside down overnight. One arrest can lead to prison, expensive fines, and permanent damage to your reputation—unless you act fast. It doesn’t matter if the arrest was conducted by police near Thompson Falls, on Highway 200, or in the Plains District Court; the judicial system moves fast to convict. With the right defense, though, you can slam on the brakes and regain control. At Stevenson Law Office, we represent the rights of individuals accused of serious crimes in Western Montana. We know how the local courts handle felony accusations and how to fight what the prosecution thinks is a “done deal.” For a summary of Montana’s criminal court process, refer to the Montana Judicial Branch’s overview of felony procedure.
If you or someone you care about has been accused of a felony in Sanders County, time is not on your side. Call 406-642-0207 today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. Your future deserves a local, aggressive legal defense.
Common Felony Charges Prosecutors File in Sanders County
Felony charges in Sanders County cover a wide range of offenses, each with serious consequences under Montana law. Local prosecutors often file charges quickly after arrest, especially when the case involves violence, weapons, or substances listed under 21 U.S.C. § 812. The charges you face are not just accusations. They are legal weapons designed to extract leverage and pressure you into a plea. At Stevenson Law Office, we do the opposite. We slow things down, investigate aggressively, and work to weaken the case before it ever sees a jury.
If you have been charged with a felony in Thompson Falls, Plains, or Trout Creek, you are not alone. We have defended clients throughout Western Montana against state and federally-enhanced criminal charges. Each case begins with understanding what you’re facing, so we can dismantle it piece by piece.
Assault And Criminal Endangerment Felonies in Sanders County
Montana courts treat violent crimes with zero leniency, especially in tight-knit communities like those in Sanders County. Charges like aggravated assault under Montana Code § 45-5-202 and criminal endangerment under § 45-5-207 are filed when law enforcement believes the alleged conduct caused substantial risk or bodily injury. Many times, these accusations come from chaotic scenes and are based on limited witness statements or exaggerated police reports.
We do not accept one-sided evidence. Our defense includes breaking down timelines, examining injury reports, and holding prosecutors accountable for inflated narratives. The burden remains on the state to prove intent, causation, and identity. When they can’t meet that standard, we move for dismissal.
How These Felony Assault Cases Often Begin
Felony assault cases in Sanders County often begin with a 911 call during a dispute or altercation. Officers typically arrest first and sort out facts later. That leaves many people facing felony-level allegations before they’ve even had a chance to explain.
Our defense strategy challenges that rush to judgment. We use body cam footage, EMS records, and third-party statements to construct a version of events that shows your side. In rural Montana, where relationships and conflicts are often misinterpreted, this local understanding can make the difference in your outcome.
Felony Drug Charges Under Federal and Montana Codes
Drug-related felonies make up a large portion of the docket in Sanders County courts. Many of these cases involve substances classified under federal drug schedules and are filed as state-level crimes under Title 50 Chapter 32. Possession of a substance categorized under Schedule I or II by the DEA may lead to felony charges even if the quantity is small and there is no evidence of sale or trafficking.
Our legal team immediately examines how the substance was identified, whether the search was legal, and how law enforcement justified the arrest. We challenge field test reliability, lab chain of custody, and probable cause. These technical weaknesses often force prosecutors to drop charges or offer significantly reduced outcomes.
How Schedule I And II Classifications Affect Local Felony Cases
The classification of a controlled substance can determine whether your case remains a misdemeanor or escalates to a felony. Sanders County prosecutors use these classifications aggressively to push for mandatory minimums, high bail, and court-ordered treatment.
We fight these enhancements by exposing weak points in the state’s evidence. Our firm frequently uncovers improper testing, misidentified substances, or procedural violations during arrest. When the foundation of the charge is flawed, we move fast to have the case dismissed or suppressed before trial. Visit the National Institute of Standards and Technology to see how testing standards impact drug evidence across jurisdictions.
Felony DUI Charges Filed in Sanders County District Courts
Felony DUI charges in Sanders County often arise after a fourth offense or when aggravating factors are present. Under Montana Code § 61-8-731, a DUI that involves injury, minors, or a refusal to comply with testing requirements can trigger felony prosecution. These charges are not simply traffic violations. They can lead to prison time, license revocation, and years of court supervision.
At Stevenson Law Office, we defend clients against DUI charges in Plains, Trout Creek, and Thompson Falls by dismantling the procedural shortcuts officers take during the arrest. Breathalyzer calibration issues, improper stop protocol, or lack of valid consent can all lead to suppressed evidence. We use those cracks to keep the case from advancing past arraignment.
Long-Term Consequences of a Felony DUI Conviction
The penalties for a felony DUI reach far beyond the courtroom. Convictions trigger automatic license suspensions, loss of firearm rights, insurance cancellation, and even job termination. In rural areas like Sanders County, where public transportation is limited, losing your license may mean losing your livelihood.
Our goal is to keep the charge from reaching that point. We fight for conditional dismissal, diversion programs, and contested suppression hearings. Many of our DUI cases are resolved before trial because prosecutors know our defense is ready. To learn how enforcement techniques affect DUI reliability, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Property And Theft-Related Felony Charges in Sanders County
Felony property crimes in Sanders County include theft over $1,500, burglary, and criminal mischief. These charges are typically filed under Montana Code § 45-6-301 and § 45-6-204. Whether the allegation involves a broken window or a missing firearm, prosecutors often file felonies to maximize sentencing exposure. These cases escalate fast, even when the facts remain unclear.
We immediately dispute ownership claims, chain of custody, and how the evidence was obtained. If the arrest was based on assumption, or if value was inflated to meet the felony threshold, we force the prosecution to justify their filings line by line.
How We Defend Against Felony Theft Allegations
Felony theft charges often begin with an accusation from a private party or business. Surveillance footage and inventory reports become the core of the state’s case. But these materials can be incomplete, misleading, or obtained through unlawful means.
We investigate what was missing, how it was valued, and whether the accused had lawful access or ownership rights. Many of these cases resolve before trial once we uncover inconsistencies. Felony charges filed without strong documentation often collapse under scrutiny.
Prosecutors Stack Felony Charges to Increase Leverage
Sanders County prosecutors often stack multiple charges to gain leverage during plea negotiations. A single arrest may result in several felonies filed at once. For example, a traffic stop could lead to charges for drug possession, resisting arrest, and possession of a weapon. This tactic raises the stakes and creates pressure to accept a deal, even when the case is weak.
At Stevenson Law Office, we reverse that pressure. Our defense starts by attacking the weakest charge first. If we can knock one count out early, the prosecutor’s strategy loses momentum. We build leverage for negotiation or dismissal by making the case more difficult to prosecute. The National Center for State Courts outlines how multi-count indictments affect pretrial outcomes and defense strategy.
Why Separating Charges Weakens the State’s Case
Each charge must stand on its own in court. Prosecutors cannot rely on a general narrative to secure multiple convictions. That is why we isolate the facts behind each allegation and attack them individually.
Our team uses cross-examination, motion practice, and forensic review to make the prosecution work harder for every count. The more we challenge, the more likely the state is to drop charges or settle favorably before trial begins.
How a Sanders County Felony Charge Threatens Your Housing and Employment
A felony charge in Sanders County does more than put your freedom at risk. It can quietly destroy your ability to live and work in Montana long after the courtroom battle ends. Employers and property managers across Thompson Falls, Plains, and Trout Creek routinely run background checks that reveal even pending felony cases. Once your name appears in that system, opportunities begin to disappear. At Stevenson Law Office, we fight not only to defend against the charge but to protect your financial future and stability.
Whether you are a tradesperson, a state worker, or someone renting their first apartment near Highway 200, a felony arrest changes how institutions treat you. These impacts are often permanent unless your legal team intervenes immediately. For a national perspective on how criminal records affect housing and jobs, review the Council of State Governments Justice Center.
Felony Charges Block Access to Housing in Western Montana
Across Sanders County, landlords use third-party tenant screening services that flag individuals with open or resolved felony records. It does not matter if the case was dismissed or if you were never convicted. Simply being charged can result in denied applications, canceled leases, and even emergency evictions in subsidized housing.
This risk increases when charges involve conduct classified under codes like § 50-32-203 or § 50-32-204. Rental policies often treat these accusations as immediate red flags. Public housing authorities also follow federal guidelines that penalize tenants facing drug-related or violent felony charges, even before a trial begins. To understand how these federal housing policies apply, visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Landlords Use Automated Systems to Deny Tenants With Records
Most leasing companies in Plains and surrounding towns subscribe to automated databases that pull criminal history reports. These tools flag any pending felony case as high risk, making it difficult for applicants to even reach the in-person interview stage. This automated denial happens before you ever explain your side.
We work to prevent this result by aggressively defending the charge, requesting sealing where possible, and keeping cases out of public view. Our goal is to keep your name clear and your housing secure while the case is pending.
A Felony Arrest Threatens Current and Future Employment
Felony charges damage your career, even before a conviction. Montana employers often take immediate action once they learn of a felony investigation, especially in licensed industries such as construction, healthcare, education, and transportation. Even small businesses in towns like Hot Springs or Heron can receive pressure from insurers or legal advisors to terminate employees facing serious criminal charges.
Many employers do not differentiate between charges and convictions. A felony arrest alone may trigger disciplinary review, suspension, or loss of security clearance. If you hold a commercial driver’s license, a felony tied to § 50-32-229 or § 50-32-226 could lead to disqualification from federally regulated routes. For more information on job barriers tied to criminal records, visit the National Employment Law Project.
Felony Drug Codes Affect Montana Professional Licensing Boards
Montana licensing agencies enforce strict rules around drug-related felonies. Boards governing nurses, contractors, real estate agents, and educators often deny renewals or revoke licenses for violations under Title 50 Chapter 32. Even a deferred sentence or plea agreement may trigger disciplinary actions.
We protect clients by negotiating outcomes that avoid mandatory reporting. In many cases, we help clients maintain their credentials by fighting the underlying allegations, pushing for diversion, or clearing records early. When your career is on the line, a proactive defense makes all the difference.
A Felony Record Damages Your Long-Term Financial Security
Felony convictions follow you everywhere, especially in financial matters. Background checks affect your ability to open business accounts, obtain a mortgage, qualify for student loans, or apply for government contracts. Many banks and lenders flag borrowers with felony histories, especially if tied to codes like § 50-32-213 or § 50-32-222. These institutions often use internal policies that limit financing to “clean history” applicants only.
In Sanders County, where small business ownership and seasonal work are common, a single felony charge can derail your plans permanently. We fight to keep that charge off your record by attacking every aspect of the case from the moment we are hired. You can review how criminal records affect access to credit through the Federal Trade Commission’s consumer information site.
Convictions Appear on Every Future Background Check
Felony records are permanent in Montana unless sealed through rare post-conviction relief. Once entered into the system, they appear in background searches run by banks, landlords, school boards, and government contractors. This visibility can be impossible to reverse once judgment is entered.
We understand how damaging even the accusation can be. That is why we work to block the charge, suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, and seek early resolution before your name ends up in permanent public records. Our defense protects more than your legal status. It protects your future.
Felony Drug Charges in Sanders County Lead to Severe Consequences
Felony drug charges filed in Sanders County carry some of the harshest legal consequences in Montana. Even a small quantity of a controlled substance identified under 21 U.S.C. § 812 can result in felony-level penalties. Prosecutors use Montana Code § 50-32-203 and § 50-32-204 to charge aggressively, especially when the alleged conduct involves intent to distribute or occurs in a zone near schools or public parks. These statutes allow the state to seek prison time, lifetime probation, and the loss of civil rights.
At Stevenson Law Office, we respond quickly to these charges by challenging the evidence at every stage. Our team knows how law enforcement in Sanders County handles controlled substance arrests. We look at how the search was conducted, how the substance was tested, and whether any legal safeguards were violated. Felony drug cases demand immediate defense strategies, and we build them with precision from day one.
Schedule I and Schedule II Classifications Increase Felony Exposure
Montana prosecutors often elevate drug possession cases to felonies based solely on how the substance is classified under federal law. Substances listed in 21 U.S.C. Part D under Schedule I or II carry enhanced penalties, including mandatory jail time and supervised probation. Even if no intent to distribute exists, the charge itself can limit eligibility for pretrial diversion or a deferred sentence.
These classifications are often applied before lab results are confirmed. That gives us an opening. We challenge the timing of the charge, the validity of the substance identification, and the reliability of the testing process. Prosecutors rely on the classification to create leverage, but we use it as a pressure point to expose flaws.
Early Classification Errors Create Opportunity for Defense
Field tests and preliminary reports often form the basis of the initial felony filing. However, these tests are frequently inaccurate, and the actual classification may not match what the state alleges. If the lab cannot verify the presence of a Schedule I or II substance with valid protocols, the entire case can begin to unravel.
Our firm demands full access to lab documentation, technician qualifications, and chain of custody records. We often consult independent analysts to cross-examine the findings. In many Sanders County cases, the government fails to meet the burden needed to sustain a felony classification.
Task Forces and Federal Pressure Escalate Local Drug Charges
Sanders County law enforcement often partners with state and federal task forces when investigating suspected drug activity. These task forces frequently operate along Highway 200, in apartment complexes around Plains, and near public land access points outside Thompson Falls. When a case involves coordination with federal agents, prosecutors tend to file aggressively under both state and federal codes.
This dual-track approach often results in stacked charges, high bail, and the seizure of property before trial. If phones, vehicles, or cash are taken during the arrest, the state may attempt to justify enhancements under Title 50 Chapter 32. At Stevenson Law Office, we move quickly to challenge how the task force operated, how warrants were obtained, and whether agents exceeded jurisdiction.
Surveillance Operations Often Violate Constitutional Standards
Multi-agency investigations regularly rely on confidential tips, extended surveillance, or pretextual traffic stops. These tactics may appear legal at first glance, but they often violate constitutional requirements under the Fourth Amendment. If law enforcement failed to meet the standard of probable cause, any evidence collected during the operation may be suppressed.
We analyze every action taken during the investigation. Our legal team reviews body cam footage, GPS tracking data, and officer reports to determine whether misconduct occurred. If so, we file immediate suppression motions to keep key evidence out of court.
Proximity to Public Areas Increases Felony Sentencing Exposure
Montana law allows prosecutors to enhance felony drug charges when the alleged offense takes place near schools, parks, or public gathering spaces. These geographic enhancements raise sentencing minimums, limit eligibility for alternative sentencing, and may trigger additional charges under § 50-32-218. In Sanders County, these charges are frequently filed in areas around Plains Elementary, the Amundson Sports Complex, or trailheads near Trout Creek.
We counter these enhancements by reviewing the distance measurements, location of the arrest, and any evidence tying the alleged conduct to the public space. In many cases, prosecutors rely on vague descriptions and assumptions. We present geographic data and eyewitness accounts to dismantle those claims. This aggressive challenge can often remove the enhancement entirely.
School Zone Enhancements Apply Even Without Student Involvement
Prosecutors do not need to prove that children were involved or that school was in session. They only need to claim that the conduct occurred within a certain distance of a public area. This standard gives the state broad authority, but it also creates room for defense.
We examine how that distance was measured, what boundaries were used, and whether the location qualifies under Montana’s statutory definitions. By attacking the geographic element, we reduce your sentencing exposure and increase your options for resolution.
Felony DUI Charges in Sanders County Carry Mandatory Penalties
A felony DUI charge in Sanders County puts everything on the line. Under Montana Code § 61-8-1002, a fourth or subsequent DUI becomes a felony offense with mandatory incarceration, license revocation, and permanent criminal record exposure. Local prosecutors in Thompson Falls and Plains take these charges seriously, and they file them aggressively. A conviction under this statute can impact your job, your freedom, and your right to drive for years to come.
At Stevenson Law Office, we defend individuals charged with felony DUI across Western Montana. Whether your arrest occurred near Highway 200 or on backroads near Noxon, our team responds quickly to challenge every step of the state’s case. We investigate the stop, examine field sobriety procedures, and push for suppression when officers violate protocol. For a broader look at DUI sentencing laws in Montana, visit the Montana Legislative Services Division.
Repeat DUI Offenses Trigger Automatic Felony Charges
Montana law makes no exceptions once a person is charged with their fourth DUI. Even if the prior convictions are years apart, prosecutors treat the case as a felony and will not reduce it without legal pressure. Once the felony designation is filed, minimum sentencing laws apply.
Our firm immediately evaluates the prior cases listed by the state. We verify whether those convictions meet the standard required for a felony enhancement. If any of the previous offenses were deferred, improperly recorded, or outside the statutory window, we push to have the enhancement removed. That reduction alone can change the entire course of the case.
Felony DUI Leads to License Revocation and Probation Terms
Felony DUI charges do more than threaten jail time. A conviction under § 61-8-1002 can lead to the long-term revocation of your driver’s license. The court may also require you to complete inpatient treatment, install an ignition interlock device, and serve supervised probation for several years.
In Sanders County, where public transportation is limited, losing your license can mean losing your ability to work or care for your family. We fight to preserve driving privileges by challenging the basis of the traffic stop, the legality of the arrest, and the accuracy of chemical tests. For insight into DUI-related license suspension rules, see the Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division.
Field Sobriety Test Errors Provide Grounds for Suppression
Many felony DUI arrests begin with a roadside evaluation that includes horizontal gaze tests, walk-and-turn instructions, and portable breath tests. These evaluations are subjective, and officers often fail to follow required procedures. When the testing process breaks protocol, the evidence becomes unreliable and may be inadmissible.
Our legal team pulls all body cam footage, dispatch records, and internal agency notes tied to the arrest. We look for inconsistencies between what the officer wrote and what actually happened on camera. These inconsistencies create room to suppress the evidence and shift leverage in our favor.
Chemical Testing Must Follow Strict Procedures Under State Law
Montana requires breath, blood, or urine testing to follow strict administrative and scientific standards. Any deviation from proper calibration, certification, or chain of custody creates an opening for defense. In felony DUI cases, prosecutors rely heavily on test results to prove impairment. If the testing method is compromised, the case can fall apart.
We demand complete lab records, maintenance logs for testing equipment, and personnel qualifications for anyone involved. When results do not meet the legal threshold for admissibility, we file immediate motions to exclude them from trial. These early wins often lead to reduced charges or outright dismissal.
Felony DUI Convictions Can Disqualify You from Certain Jobs
Many professions in Sanders County and beyond require a clean driving record. CDL holders, delivery drivers, tradespeople, and anyone working in agriculture or forestry rely on driving to do their job. A felony DUI on your record makes you ineligible for these roles and may cause immediate job termination.
That is why early intervention matters. We focus not only on the legal charges but on how they affect your future employment, licensing, and professional standing. For a broader understanding of how DUI convictions impact job eligibility, review the U.S. Department of Labor’s resources on background checks.
Take Immediate Action to Defend Against a Sanders County Felony Charge
Felony charges in Sanders County move fast and carry life-changing consequences. From mandatory sentencing under Montana Code § 61-8-1002 to enhancements tied to drug classifications and public zone proximity, prosecutors build their cases to secure convictions quickly. You cannot afford to wait.
At Stevenson Law Office, we fight from the moment your case begins. Our defense strategies are tailored to the local courts, law enforcement patterns, and the specific charges filed against you. Whether you are facing criminal endangerment, a fourth DUI, or felony possession under Title 50 Chapter 32, we know how to push back.
Call 406-642-0207 now for a confidential case review. We represent clients throughout Plains, Thompson Falls, Trout Creek, and the surrounding communities. Let us protect your freedom before the system decides your future for you.
