What Happens After You’re Arrested for a Felony in Douglas or Washoe County, Nevada?

A felony arrest in Douglas County or Washoe County can feel like everything in your life is unraveling. Whether it happens during a traffic stop in Reno or an incident in Gardnerville, that moment when the handcuffs click can leave you scared, confused, and wondering what comes next. You may be facing unfamiliar charges, unfamiliar courtrooms, and what feels like an uncertain future.


But here’s the truth: an arrest is not the same as a conviction. And no matter what the charge is, you still have rights — and options. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference.


The Arrest and Booking Process


After you’re arrested, law enforcement will transport you to the local jail — Douglas County Jail in Minden or Washoe County Jail in Reno. Once there, you’ll go through the booking process, which involves taking your fingerprints and mugshot, recording details about the arrest, and temporarily storing your personal belongings. This is often a disorienting experience, especially if you’ve never been in legal trouble before.


During this time, it’s important to remain calm and say as little as possible. You’re not required to answer questions beyond providing basic identifying information, and anything you say can be used against you. Politely asking to speak to an attorney is one of the smartest things you can do.


Bail and Release


In many felony cases, the court will set bail — a financial amount meant to guarantee that you’ll return for future court appearances. Bail can be posted in cash, through a bail bond company, or in some situations, you may qualify for release on your own recognizance (OR). This means you’re allowed to go home while your case moves forward, without having to post money.


Bail decisions are made based on several factors, including the seriousness of the charge, your criminal history, and whether you’re considered a flight risk. Your attorney can request a bail hearing to argue for a lower amount or OR release, and in some cases, may even be able to get you released the same day. Being out of custody allows you to better prepare your defense, maintain employment, and care for your family during a difficult time.


The Arraignment


Your arraignment is your first formal court appearance. This usually happens within a few days of your arrest at East Fork Justice Court in Douglas County or Reno Justice Court in Washoe County. During this hearing, the judge will explain the charges against you, and you’ll enter a plea — most often “not guilty” at this stage. The judge may also review or modify bail conditions.


Having an attorney by your side for the arraignment is essential. Your lawyer will speak on your behalf, begin assessing the prosecution’s strategy, and help protect you from saying anything that could damage your case.


Preliminary Hearing


In Nevada, felony cases include a preliminary hearing — a critical step where the court determines whether there’s enough evidence for your case to move forward to trial. This isn’t a full-blown trial, but it’s often the first chance for your attorney to challenge the evidence, question witnesses, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.


This hearing can be a turning point. In some situations, your charges may be reduced or dismissed entirely based on the arguments made during the preliminary hearing. Whether your case is being heard in a Douglas County or Washoe County courtroom, this is a moment where skilled legal representation can truly change the outcome.


Pretrial Phase and Negotiations


If the judge decides the case should proceed, it moves into the pretrial phase. This is when both sides gather and exchange evidence, and your attorney may file legal motions — for example, to suppress evidence that was obtained unlawfully or to request additional discovery.


Many cases are resolved during this stage through plea negotiations. Your attorney will weigh the strengths and weaknesses of the case, advise you on your options, and negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a reduced charge or lighter sentence — if that’s the best path forward. However, not every case should end in a plea. If the evidence is weak or your rights were violated, your lawyer may recommend taking the case to trial.


Trial or Case Resolution


If your case goes to trial, it will likely be held in Douglas County District Court or Second Judicial District Court in Washoe County. Trials are complex, formal proceedings where the prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Your defense attorney will present evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and advocate on your behalf before a judge or jury.


If your case is resolved before trial — either through dismissal or a plea agreement — the court will proceed with sentencing. A good attorney will continue to advocate for leniency, alternatives to incarceration, or options like probation or diversion programs that may be available based on your background and the nature of the offense.


The Stakes Are High — But You’re Not Alone


A felony conviction in Nevada can result in significant prison time, heavy fines, and long-term consequences that affect employment, housing, and your civil rights. But the outcome of your case isn’t set in stone. The earlier you involve a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of building a strong defense.


At Max Stovall Law, we represent clients throughout Douglas County and Washoe County — from rural communities in the Carson Valley to the busy courts of downtown Reno. We understand the local court systems, know the prosecutors, and bring deep experience in handling everything from first-time offenses to major felony cases.


If you or someone you care about has been arrested for a felony in Northern Nevada, don’t wait. The choices you make now could shape your future for years to come.


Contact Max Stovall Law today for a confidential consultation — and take the first step toward protecting your rights and your future.

Northern Nevada Child Custody: Understanding Nevada's "Best Interest of the Child" Standard

December 8, 2025
Family law matters affect what matters most—your children. When parents in Reno, Minden, Carson City, or the wider Northern Nevada area face separation or divorce, the most critical decision involves establishing custody. In Nevada, the court's priority is singular and unwavering: the best interest of the child. Understanding this standard and the factors a local judge considers is the first and most vital step in protecting your relationship with your child. The Foundational Standard: Best Interest of the Child Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 125C.0035), every custody determination, whether initial or modified, must be based on what the judge determines is in the child's best interest. This is a complex standard, requiring the court to evaluate numerous factors. What Does "Best Interest" Mean in Nevada Law? The court does not use a simple checklist; instead, it conducts a holistic evaluation of the family situation. Key factors the court must consider include: The Child’s Emotional Bonds: The love, affection, and emotional ties between each parent and the child. The Capacity of the Parent: Each parent's ability to cooperate, facilitate a relationship with the other parent, and address the child's developmental needs. Conflict Between Parents: The level of conflict between the parents and the potential for that conflict to harm the child. The court favors parents who can minimize conflict. Parental Health and Safety: The mental and physical health of each parent. This includes any history of abuse, neglect, or substance dependency. Caring for the Child: Which parent has historically acted as the primary caregiver. The Child’s Preference: If the child is of sufficient age and capacity to form an intelligent preference, the court will consider their wishes, though this is only one factor among many. Crucial Takeaway: The court is not looking for a "perfect parent," but the arrangement that best promotes the child's stability, safety, and well-being. Physical vs. Legal Custody: Key Distinctions A custody order determines two distinct types of rights and responsibilities. It’s essential to understand the difference between them, as they are often treated differently by the court. Legal Custody Legal custody is the authority to make major, long-term decisions concerning the child's upbringing. This includes choices about: Education (which school the child attends) Medical care (non-emergency procedures) Religious instruction In Northern Nevada, courts overwhelmingly favor joint legal custody, meaning both parents share the right to make these major decisions, even if one parent has primary physical custody. Physical Custody Physical custody refers to where the child lives on a day-to-day basis and which parent is responsible for their routine care. Joint Physical Custody: The child spends a significant, roughly equal amount of time with both parents. This arrangement is common and often favored if parents live close and can cooperate effectively. Primary Physical Custody: The child spends the majority of their time (more than 60%) with one parent, while the other parent is typically awarded a structured visitation schedule, often referred to as parenting time. Common Custody Challenges in Northern Nevada Because Northern Nevada is a transient region, specific issues often arise in the family law context: Relocation Cases (Moving Out of State) If a parent with joint physical custody or primary physical custody wishes to move a child out of the state of Nevada, the law requires specific steps. Unless the other parent agrees, you must petition the court for permission. The court will apply a detailed analysis of factors to determine if the move is in the child's best interest. Relocation is one of the most complex areas of custody law. Enforcement of Orders If one parent fails to follow the court-ordered parenting plan—by withholding visitation, failing to pay support, or violating other terms—the other parent may need to file a motion for contempt or an enforcement action. The court takes non-compliance seriously and may impose sanctions or modify the order. How the Law Offices of Maximilian A. Stovall Can Help Navigating the courts in Reno, Minden, and Carson City requires not just a knowledge of Nevada law, but deep familiarity with local judges and procedures. At the Law Offices of Maximilian A. Stovall, we provide: Smart Strategy: We help you understand how the "best interest" factors apply specifically to your unique family situation. Local Advantage: Max Stovall brings deep familiarity with the local judicial system, ensuring your case is presented efficiently. Fierce Advocacy: Whether we are negotiating a fair parenting plan outside of court or advocating for your rights and your child's well-being in a contested hearing, we offer steady guidance every step of the way. If you are facing a child custody matter in Northern Nevada, it is critical to seek experienced legal counsel immediately. Contact Us Today Ready to discuss your case? Contact the Law Offices of Maximilian A. Stovall for compassionate guidance and strong representation.

Probation Violations in Nevada: What to Expect

By Max Stovall • November 26, 2025
Being placed on probation in Nevada can feel like a second chance. Instead of serving time in jail or prison, you get to remain in the community — but that opportunity comes with strict conditions. If you violate those terms, you could be facing serious consequences, including the possibility of serving the original sentence you were trying to avoid. Whether your probation is through Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, knowing what counts as a violation — and what happens next — is critical. Common Ways Probation Is Violated Probation conditions vary depending on your case, but violations generally fall into two categories: 1. Technical violations – Breaking the specific rules of your probation, such as: Missing meetings with your probation officer Failing to complete court-ordered classes or community service Traveling out of state without permission Not paying required fines, fees, or restitution 2. Substantive violations – Committing a new offense while on probation, even if it’s unrelated to your original charge. This can include anything from a DUI arrest to a shoplifting charge. Sometimes, violations happen due to misunderstandings — for example, missing an appointment because you didn’t get a schedule change notice. But even unintentional violations can still lead to serious consequences. What Happens After a Probation Violation in Nevada If your probation officer believes you’ve violated your terms, they can file a violation report with the court. The judge may then: Issue a summons for you to appear in court, or Issue a warrant for your arrest (especially if the violation is serious or involves a new criminal charge ) You’ll then attend a probation revocation hearing, where the court decides if you did, in fact, violate your probation and what should happen next. Possible Penalties for a Probation Violation Penalties vary depending on the nature and severity of the violation, your criminal history, and your overall compliance with probation before the incident. The court can: Reinstate your probation with the same terms Modify your probation by adding stricter conditions Extend the length of your probation Revoke your probation entirely and require you to serve the original jail or prison sentence If your violation involves a new criminal charge, you could be dealing with two separate cases — one for the violation and one for the new offense. Defenses to a Probation Violation Having an attorney at your probation revocation hearing is essential. Your lawyer may be able to show: The violation didn’t happen (mistaken identity, inaccurate records) The violation was unintentional and due to circumstances beyond your control You have made significant progress on probation and deserve another chance Alternative measures (like increased supervision or additional classes) would be more appropriate than jail time Unlike criminal trials, probation violation hearings have a lower burden of proof — meaning the prosecution doesn’t need to prove the violation beyond a reasonable doubt. This makes having an advocate on your side even more important. Local Help for Probation Violations in Douglas and Washoe Counties At Max Stovall Law, we understand that life on probation can be challenging, and sometimes mistakes happen. We’ve represented clients across Douglas County and Washoe County in probation violation hearings, helping them avoid unnecessary jail time and get back on track. If you’ve been accused of violating your probation, don’t face the judge alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight to keep your freedom.