Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony
Criminal charges of all levels can leave the accused with numerous questions. How severe are the accusations they face? If those charges lead to a conviction, how will the penalties impact their life? How can they defend themselves against these allegations?
Attorney Alexandria “Ally” Crouthamel fights for clients in east central Pennsylvania who have been charged with crimes of all types. As an experienced defense lawyer, she understands the impact that any misdemeanor or felony can have on your life, and she will aggressively advocate for you at every stage of the legal process.
What Makes a Crime a Misdemeanor?
Misdemeanors are generally less severe than felonies, but they still carry penalties that can significantly impact a person’s life. Depending on the seriousness of the charge, misdemeanors can result in imprisonment for months or years, fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, probation, and a variety of other consequences.
Some charges that are commonly classified as misdemeanors include:
- Threats
- Assaults
- Many types of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses
- Theft of property worth less than $2,000
- Possession of marijuana
- Vandalism
Pennsylvania law categorizes misdemeanor crimes into three distinct categories, with first-degree misdemeanors being the most serious. Although third-degree misdemeanors are among the least severe charges under state law, they can still have a significant impact on a person’s life.
What Makes a Crime a Felony?
Felonies are more serious offenses than misdemeanors, and generally, these charges can lead to more severe penalties, including fines of up to $25,000 and imprisonment for years. Felony convictions can also impact your life in other ways, such as limiting your ability to own a firearm, receive financial aid for a college education, pursue government benefits, run for public office, or serve on a jury.
Some charges commonly classified as felonies include:
- Bribery
- Gun crimes
- Theft of property worth more than $2,000
- Sexual assault
- Rape
- Kidnapping
Just as misdemeanor charges are categorized based on their severity, felonies are also divided into different categories. First-degree felonies are among the most serious crimes under state law and can result in more than a decade in prison.
Fight for Your Rights Today
No matter what level of charge you’re facing, you deserve to have an experienced lawyer by your side. Attorney Crouthamel offers complimentary consultations for clients in Lehigh, Schuylkill, Delaware, Montgomery, Chester, Berks and Bucks Counties. Call 610-428-3386 or email to learn more.
