Most states consider felonies as more severe crimes than misdemeanors and are punished more harshly. Beyond fines and jail term, a felony conviction may have devastating effects on your future life.
Those convicted of a felony may lose their right to possess a firearm, right to vote, and may also hinder their chances of being employed, serving in the military, acquiring professional licenses, and many other aspects of their lives.
With so much at risk, you need to act with speed and hire a felony lawyer to help you navigate through your situation. Our team of attorneys for felony cases will do everything possible to shield you from harsh consequences and get you back on track to leading a peaceful life.
Felonies vs. Misdemeanors
As mentioned earlier, most states consider felony offenses as more heinous than misdemeanors. This is because a felony offense carries a relatively higher state of intent than a misdemeanor. Furthermore, the harm caused to the compliant or society is always greater.
In most states, felony offenses are punishable by maximum terms stipulated in the law. The minimum jail term is one year served in a federal or state prison that provides maximum security and greater restrictions to your freedom.
Misdemeanors are usually referred to as “petty crimes” since most of them don’t have victims. They include offenses such as disorderly conduct, defacing property, or petty theft.
Even those misdemeanor offenses that involve complainants are associated with minor damages or injuries. This is the reason why the maximum jail term for such offenses is one year. The sentence is served in a county jail which houses less violent offenders and is not so strict.
Common Types of Felony Charges
Most states in the US classify the following crimes as felonies:
- Assault, assault with significant bodily injury, assault with intent to kill, battery, assault on a police officer, assault with a deadly weapon
- Homicide
- Sexual battery and rape
- Fraud
- Theft such as grand theft, embezzlement, receiving stolen property, and larceny
- Death threats
- Burglary
- Arson
- Destruction of property
- Robbery
- Kidnapping and smuggling of persons
- Illegal possession of firearms
- Traffic offenses such as driving under the influence and driving while intoxicated
- Manufacturing counterfeit goods
Penalties of a Felony Conviction
In general, if you are found guilty of committing a felony, you face a jail term of at least one year. However, depending on the state and circumstances surrounding your felony charge, prison sentences can be much longer and may even result in a death penalty.
The court may also order you to pay hefty fines and restitution. On the other hand, misdemeanor charges carry a less serious sentence. For instance, if you are found guilty of a misdemeanor, the court may give you a sentence that doesn’t include a jail term.
In addition to hefty fines, restitution, and longer jail terms, convicted felons also face long-term consequences after fulfilling their punishment. If you are convicted of a felony, you risk losing your right to vote, work in certain fields, possess firearms, serve on juries, and obtain certain professional licenses.
In other words, a felony conviction may follow you for the rest of your life. For example, if you are convicted of a sexual offense, this information will be included in your state database and can easily be accessed by anyone. Sexual offenders may also be required to inform their neighbors about the crime they committed before moving into a new home.
Fortunately, you can avoid all this by hiring one of our experienced lawyers for felony crimes to handle your case.
Are you facing a felony charge? Talk to us today and let us connect you with the best attorneys for felony cases.
Charged with Felony? Talk to one of our Attorneys for Felony Cases Today!
If you have been arrested and charged with a felony crime, you should consider hiring one of our attorneys for felony cases to help you with your case. Due to the serious consequences of a felony conviction, it is crucial to hire a felony lawyer as soon as you learn you are the subject of a criminal investigation. Don’t hesitate because the outcome of your case may depend on your actions.
At Legal Giant, we connect you with experienced felony attorneys who understand the fact that this might be the most crucial battle of your life. They are committed to protecting your rights and interests and safeguarding your future.
