Friday, November 18, 2016

Felonies vs Misdemeanors: What's the Difference?

Felonies and misdemeanors are classifications used to identify types of crimes. Felonies are serious offenses that are punishable by death or imprisonment for a term in excess of one year and up to life in prison. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, but they may still be subject to steep consequences. In today's blog, Gibbons Law Firm is here to help you understand the distinction between these two classifications.


Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors could be considered "middle-of-the-road crimes." They are more serious than infractions (which are minor transgressions that typically result in a fine), but less serious than felonies. They are typically punishable by fines and up to one year in the county jail. Examples of misdemeanors may include:
  • Petty Theft
  • Possession of small amounts of marijuana
  • Trespass
  • Disturbance of the peace
  • Illegal gambling

It is important to realize that certain acts may be moved from a misdemeanor to a felony classification depending on their severity.

Felonies

A felony is the most serious classification of crimes according to the American judicial system, and as such it is reserved for the most heinous acts. Convicted felons may be subject to the maximum punishment allowable by the state in which they are committed. This punishment may include steep fines, multiple years in prison (including a life sentence), and potentially even the death penalty. Examples of felonies may include:
  • Robbery
  • Kidnapping
  • Possession and/or distribution of child pornography
  • Embezzlement
  • Grand theft
  • Murder
  • Identity theft
  • Rape (of both adults and minors)
  • Possession and/or distribution of a controlled substance
  • Fraud

Secure Quality Representation When Facing Criminal Charges

Convictions can impact your life in more ways that you may realize. Even if you are not sentenced to multiple years in prison, your conviction will likely follow you for many years. A criminal history often makes it harder to secure housing, find employment, be accepted into educational institutions, possess a firearm, and even be approved for insurance coverage. 

When facing criminal accusations, securing top-notch criminal defense is essential. Our criminal defense attorney in Osage Beach MO has experience defending against a vast array of criminal allegations. If you are facing charges, we urge you to contact Gibbons Law Firm to discuss your options. Remember, your initial consultation at our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is always free.





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Gibbons Law Firm
4075 Osage Beach Parkway, Suite 300
Osage Beach, MO 65065
(573) 348-2211

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