What may seem like a simple question to some, is a matter that can have serious consequences for others. In this article, we will explore the differences between felonies and misdemeanors, and what you need to know if you are facing criminal charges.
Regardless of whether you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor, enlisting the help of the many defense lawyers los angeles has could be vital for the outcome of your case.
Even if you are never accused of such a crime, it could be important to know the difference between the two terms. So, let’s learn more.
Felony
A felony is a more serious crime than a misdemeanor. It is generally punishable by more than one year in prison. Some felonies, such as murder or rape, can result in a life sentence or even the death penalty.
Class A Felony
Class A felony is the most serious felony classification and is punishable by imprisonment for life or for any number of years.
Some Class A felonies include:
- Murder
- Rape
- Arson
- Burglary
In the case of arson, we could be looking at a loss of life, which would almost certainly put it into the Class A felony category.
The burglary would be dependent on the amount of violence used on the occupants of the house to steal the items of value. If a sawn-shot gun was used, for instance, even as a threat, then this crime becomes a lot more serious than the burglary of an empty warehouse, no matter what value of goods was involved. There is something worse, too, about a crime being committed against an individual.
Class B Felony
A Class B felony is less serious than a Class A felony but still a serious crime. These crimes will typically be those committed against a person or be about the possession of illegal items. We might be talking, first-degree reckless homicide in the case of a crime committed against a person.
Class C felony
A Class C felony is less serious than a Class B felony and the least serious of the felony categories. This is not to lessen it in any way because it will still be a significant crime that has been committed.
Class C felonies might therefore include internet stalking, assaulting a judge, certain thefts, or carjacking. This is not an exhaustive list, and it is worth checking with a defense lawyer which category a crime falls into as it will make all the difference when it comes to the sentence given.
Misdemeanor
A misdemeanor is a lesser crime than a felony. It is generally punishable by up to one year in jail. Some misdemeanors, such as disorderly conduct or petty theft, may not even result in a jail sentence.
Some examples of misdemeanors include petty theft, disorderly conduct, and simple assault. Misdemeanors could still seriously affect your life in a major way, however. It’s not easy to get a job if you have a drunk driving or bar fight mugshot floating around on the internet. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, but that shouldn’t haunt them forever, which is why there are mugshot removal services that could help you out. You’d still be somewhat employable even after committing a misdemeanor, but maybe not a felony.
Criminal Defense
If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to speak with a criminal defense attorney. They can help you understand the charges against you from the off.
A criminal defense lawyer is an attorney who specializes in the defense of those accused of crimes. They can help to defend people who have been charged with either felonies or misdemeanors. In some cases, they may be able to get the charges reduced or even dismissed.
Felonies are more serious crimes than misdemeanors. Felony offenses range from the most severe, like murder and rape, to less-severe felony charges such as burglary or arson. Misdemeanor offenses can include disorderly conduct or petty theft but may not result in a jail sentence depending on the severity of the crime committed.
Whether you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor, it is important to speak with a criminal defense lawyer who can guide you on your best defense.
Infographic Created By Zoukis Consulting Group – Providing Legal Assistance To Those Incarcerated In theFederal Bureau of Prisons