In the United States, crimes are divided into two categories, felonies and misdemeanors. These two classifications can result in different penalties and will affect your criminal record in different ways. If accused of committing a crime, it’s essential to understand how this classification affects your case. The right Indiana criminal defense attorney can help. To learn more about felonies versus misdemeanors, read on!
What Is a Felony?
A felony is a serious crime punishable by death or imprisonment in a state or federal penitentiary. In most states, felonies are crimes punishable by more than one year in jail. Some examples of felonies consist of burglary, robbery, rape, and murder.
What Is a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that can result in jail time for up to one year. Misdemeanors are typically less severe than felonies, but they can still impact your life. If convicted of a misdemeanor, this can result in fines, probation, and even jail time. In some cases, you may also lose your right to vote or possess firearms.
Felony Charge
A felony charge is a much more severe charge than a misdemeanor. If convicted of a felony, you could face imprisonment for more than one year and significant fines. In addition, a felony conviction will stay on your record for life. This record will make it difficult to find employment or housing. An Indiana Criminal Defense Attorney can help ensure your case is handled in a fair manner.
Misdemeanor Charge
A misdemeanor is a less significant crime than a felony. If charged with a misdemeanor, you may receive a fine and/or jail time for up to one year. Keep in mind that you will also have a criminal record with a misdemeanor charge.
What Are Some Examples of Potential Penalties?
The penalties for a felony are much more severe than penalties for a misdemeanor. Some examples of potential penalties for a felony include imprisonment, probation, and loss of civil rights. Examples of penalties for a misdemeanor include fines, probation, and community service.
A felony is a much more severe charge than a misdemeanor and can have life-altering consequences if you are convicted. It is critical to know the difference between the two so that you can understand the severity of the charge you are facing. It is best to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Indiana to help you navigate the criminal justice system. Contact Potts Law at (317) 951-0087 or fill out the online contact form to get started.
