Types of Felonies
There are several different felonies, which are deemed the most serious class of offense throughout the United States. In most cases, you should seek out a
criminal defense attorney. Felonies include crimes such as:
Felonies are often categorized by violent or non-violent offense. Some offense may be misdemeanors or felonies according to the situation, such as possessing a controlled substance may be a misdemeanor, however, a certain amount of a controlled substance could be a felony. Carrying a deadly weapon may be legal; however, carrying the weapon into an area that is restricted such as a government building would be a felony.
The general laws governing felonies place the offenses into four categories:
- First degree – those that actually committed the crime
- Second degree – those that helped the crime be committed or aided the criminal in some way
- Third degree - those that helped plan the crime or knew about the crime before it took place
- Fourth degree – those that helped after the crime took place.
In the majority of states in the US, the punishment of felonies depends on the seriousness of the crime. A felony charge can end with imprisonment for one or more years or even death for the more serious crimes.
In the United States after a felony conviction the person may lose their right to vote, be employed in certain professions, not allowed certain types of licenses, prohibited from buying or carrying firearms, to name a few.
If you have been charged with a felony, you need to contact a local criminal defense lawyer that has experience with charges similar to yours to ensure your rights are preserved and you receive a fair trial. In some cases, your
felony attorney will be able to help you stay out of jail; lessen your charges, and many times even change the charge to a misdemeanor if possible.