The Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony

Types of crimes are divided between two categories – misdemeanor and felony. Felonies are punishable by death or lengthy incarceration while misdemeanors are less serious crimes where the punishment is not as steep as a felony. Being accused of a crime is a serious situation no matter if it is a misdemeanor or a felony. Our Lake of the Ozarks criminal defense attorney can help you understand the magnitude of your case. Below you can find more ways distinguish between a misdemeanor and a felony crime.

Misdemeanor:

Some consider a misdemeanor a “middle-of-the-road crime”. This type of crime has a more serious consequence than an infraction and lesser than that of a felony.  Misdemeanors are typically punishable by fines and/or up to one year in county or local jail.

See a few examples of a misdemeanor crime below:
• Petty Theft
• Possession of small amounts of marijuana
• Trespass
• Disturbance of the peace
• Illegal gambling

Note that some misdemeanor charges can be moved up to a felony, depending on the severity of the crime. For example, punching someone in a bar would be punished as a misdemeanor but hitting someone with brass knuckles would qualify as a felony charge. In addition, being in possession of a large amount of marijuana can be charged as a felony, whereas a smaller amount may be punished as a misdemeanor.

Felony: 

According to the American Judicial System, a felony is the most serious classification of crime that can be committed. This classification is reserved for the most heinous crimes.  Convicted felons may be subject to the maximum punishment allowable by the state in which they are committed. This can include steep fines, multiple years in prison (including up to life), and the potential for the death penalty (depending on the state).

See a few examples of felonies below:
• Robbery
• Kidnapping
• Possession and/or distribution of child pornography
• Embezzlement
• Grand theft
• Murder
• Identity theft
• Rape
• Possession and/or distribution of a controlled substance
• Fraud

Quality Representation Can Make All The Difference:

Misdemeanor and felony convictions can greatly impact every aspect of your life. The thought itself can be overwhelming. Even if you are not punished to life in prison, the conviction can follow you around for many years. The right representation on your side can help you reach the best outcome possible. It’s important to find an attorney who can help best represent your misdemeanor or felony case.

When being accused of a crime, securing an experienced defense is essential. Our criminal defense attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks has experience defending against a wide range of criminal allegations. If you have been accused of a criminal offense, it’s important to seek legal counsel to discuss your options. Contact Gibbons Law Firm to schedule your initial consultation today. At our Lake of the Ozarks law firm, your first consultation is always free!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

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Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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