Reno Felony Defense Lawyers
A Proven Defense Team for Clients in Sparks, NV
A felony charge puts your freedom, your career, and your future at risk. At Larry K. Dunn & Associates, founding attorney Larry K. Dunn brings something most defense lawyers can’t: He spent two years as a Washoe County Deputy District Attorney before entering private practice, so he understands how prosecutors here build felony cases and where those cases may be challenged. He and his daughter, Karena Dunn, are accomplished trial lawyers who together bring more than 55 years of combined legal experience to every client they represent.
Larry has personally tried more than 70 felony jury trials in Northern Nevada courts. Across the firm’s history, we’ve handled over 15,000 criminal cases. That depth of courtroom experience means we aren’t learning how Washoe County District Court operates on your case. Call us for a free consultation, and let’s talk about what we can do for your defense.
Get legal guidance from a Reno felony defense attorney at Larry K. Dunn & Associates. Call (775) 522-3550 or reach us online for a free consultation.
The Serious Nature of Nevada Felony Charges
Felonies are the most severe category of criminal offense, and their consequences don’t end with incarceration. A conviction can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, and qualify for or retain professional licenses. You may also lose your right to vote and face restrictions on firearm ownership.
Because the stakes reach into nearly every part of your life, early intervention matters. Even before charges are formally filed, an experienced felony attorney can pursue reduced charges, identify procedural errors, seek to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, or lay the groundwork for trial, depending on the circumstances.
Common Felony Crimes in Nevada and Their Penalties
Felony offenses cover a wide range of criminal acts. Common felonies and their potential penalties under Nevada law include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Murder (NRS 200.010): First-degree murder carries the death penalty, life without the possibility of parole, or life with the possibility of parole (with eligibility after 20 years). Second-degree murder carries life in prison with the possibility of parole, with eligibility beginning after 10 years.
- Burglary (NRS 205.060): Punishment varies by type, with residential burglary typically carrying one to 10 years in prison and enhanced penalties if a deadly weapon is involved.
- Drug trafficking (NRS 453.3385): Depending on the amount of the controlled substance, sentences can range from two to 20 years for lower-level trafficking up to 25 years to life imprisonment for the most serious offenses, along with significant fines.
- Sexual assault (NRS 200.366): Convictions can lead to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, especially if the victim is a minor.
- Armed robbery (NRS 200.380): This crime carries a potential sentence of two to 15 years in prison, with added penalties for using a firearm.
- Felony DUI (NRS 484C.410): Penalties include two to 15 years in prison, significant fines, and revocation of your driver’s license.
- White-collar crimes (NRS 205.0832): Crimes like embezzlement and fraud may lead to years of imprisonment and significant restitution payments.
Let’s talk about your case! Schedule a free, confidential consultation with our expert team today.
What to Do If You Are Under Investigation or Arrested
If you believe you’re under investigation for a felony or have been arrested, the actions you take early can significantly affect your case.
- If you are under investigation: Don’t speak with law enforcement or investigators without legal representation. Everything you say can be used against you. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and understand how to proceed.
- If you have been arrested or charged: Exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Don’t discuss the case with anyone, including friends and family, and don’t post about it on social media.
When you contact Larry K. Dunn & Associates, you reach a real person. We’re available to talk through your situation and can advise on next steps before anything limits your options.
How We Defend Felony Cases in Reno
Our defense approach is built around the specifics of your charges, not a generic template. Larry’s years as a Washoe County prosecutor shaped how we approach every case: We start by thinking about how the other side will build their argument, then work backward to find where it may be taken apart. With more than 70 felony jury trials tried personally by Larry in Northern Nevada, we know what these cases look like from both sides of the courtroom.
Our defense process includes:
- Evidence review and suppression analysis: We conduct a detailed examination of all evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, including improper police conduct, constitutional violations, or insufficient evidence that may support a motion to suppress.
- Charge negotiation: We negotiate directly with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or favorable plea agreements where that serves the client’s interests.
- Trial preparation: When a case goes to trial, we prepare thoroughly, gathering witnesses, consulting experts, and developing legal arguments grounded in Nevada law and Washoe County court practice.
- Alternative sentencing: Where the circumstances allow, we advocate for diversion programs or alternative sentencing options that may reduce or avoid jail time.
Every felony case is different. We tailor our strategy to your specific charges, your record, and the facts on the ground.
Call (775) 522-3550 or submit our online contact form for guidance from a Reno felony defense attorney today.