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Being charged with committing a crime can be scary, especially when you are unsure of what possible punishment you may be facing. If convicted of a crime the maximum sentence depends upon if the crime is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are punishable by up to a year in jail. In Virginia, misdemeanors are classified into one of four classes. Virginia Code 18.2-11 outlines the different classes of misdemeanors and the maximum punishment authorized each class:
· Class 1 misdemeanor – confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.
· Class 2 misdemeanor – confinement in jail for not more than six months and a fine of not more than $1,000, either or both.
· Class 3 misdemeanor – a fine of not more than $500.
· Class 4 misdemeanor – a fine of not more than $250.
Felonies
Felonies are more serious criminal offenses and are punishable by more than a year in prison. In Virginia, felonies classified into one of six classes. Virginia Code 18.2-10 outlines the different classes of felonies and the maximum punishment authorized for each class:
· Class 1 felony – death or life in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
· Class 2 felony – life in prison or a minimum of twenty years prison and a fine up to $100,000.
· Class 3 felony – five to twenty years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
· Class 4 felony – two to ten years in prison and a fine of up $100,000.
· Class 5 felony – one to ten years in prison or up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2500.00.
· Class 6 felony – one to five years in prison or up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2500.00.
In addition to any time spent in jail, a person with a felony conviction can lose certain rights and privileges, including the right to vote, the right to carry a firearm, the ability to obtain professional license and the right to governmental benefits to name a few.
A misdemeanor or felony conviction can have serious and long-term consequences that last long past any sentence. If you have been charged with a crime it is important that you know what is at stake and that you have people in your corner working for you. The attorneys here at Hadley Law are well versed in criminal misdemeanor defense and can help you navigate the process.
