Originally Published February 11th, 2020
If you know someone charged with a felony crime or if you are only curious about the felony charges in the US, then you are in the right place. Below is the discussion about some of the common felonies in the US.
WHAT IS A FELONY?
Felony crimes are more severe than misdemeanor charges. It can be both nonviolent or violent unlawful acts and are usually punishable by prison time and hefty fines.
In the United States, a violent crime occurs every 26 seconds, while 3.5 seconds for a property crime, according to the statistical data from 2014.
These types of crimes always have a heavier sentence than a misdemeanor because felonies can have a massive impact on public safety.
THE MOST COMMON FELONIES IN THE US
- Drug abuse violations
- Property crimes (e.g., auto theft, burglary, larceny, arson, and robbery)
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Disorderly conduct
- Violent crime (e.g., manslaughter, murder, aggravated assault, and forcible rape)
- Vandalism
- Fraud
- Weapons violations (e.g., carrying a concealed weapon, possessing a gun without proper license)
- Violation of curfew and loitering laws
- Domestic violence and child abuse
- Stolen property violations
- Forgery and counterfeiting
DIFFERENT CLASSIFICATIONS OF FELONY CHARGES
CLASS 1 FELONY:
This is the most serious charge that has a penalty that ranges from a minimum of life prison and a maximum of a death sentence.
CLASS 2 FELONY:
Has a penalty of twenty years minimum of imprisonment and a maximum of life in prison.
CLASS 3 FELONY:
Has a penalty of five to twenty years of imprisonment.
CLASS 4 FELONY:
Has a penalty of two to ten years of imprisonment.
CLASS 5 FELONY:
Has a penalty of one to ten years of imprisonment.
These are the general punishment of felony charges. However, the state can impose additional jail time and fines, or sometimes, both.
WHAT TO DO WITH A FELONY CHARGE
When charged with a felony crime, it’s best to seek help from a criminal defense lawyer. Felony charges can keep you from getting a job, can result in jail time, and, if serious enough, it can cost you your life.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Franchette Agatha Jardin believes that everyone has the capacity to help those who are in need. She writes blogs about issues and news surrounding those in prison in the hopes of restoring a little extra faith in humanity.