Misdemeanor and Felony

Misdemeanors & Felony Charges

Many people facing criminal charges find themselves wondering about the difference between misdemeanors and felonies. Although a felony charge sounds more intimidating to most people, and generally felonies do involve more serious crimes and more serious punishments, both felonies and misdemeanors can result in life-altering consequences, including possible jail time, loss of driving privileges, a permanent criminal record and other penalties.

Talk to me and let me help you. I recognize that no two cases and no two clients are the same, so I maintain a strong commitment to providing personally tailored, individualized legal representation for each of my clients. I start by providing a realistic evaluation of each case, and by listening to my clients’ goals. Then, I do everything I can to achieve the best outcome possible in each case.

Misdemeanor Charges

Generally, misdemeanors are crimes that are punishable by up to one year in jail. Misdemeanor charges can include:

  • DUI
  • Battery
  • Domestic assault
  • Invasion of privacy
  • Criminal conversion
  • Trespass
  • Drug possession
  • Traffic misdemeanors
  • Driving without insurance

Felonies

Felonies involve serious crimes and result in enhanced penalties. Many of the crimes that are charged as felonies are more severe versions of misdemeanors, or are misdemeanors that involve aggravating factors such as multiple counts or prior charges.

  • Felony DUI: A misdemeanor DUI can become a felony if it is the second offense within five years, if there was a minor in the vehicle at the time of the crime, or if the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) was more than 0.08 and someone was seriously injured as a result.
  • Domestic battery: Misdemeanor domestic battery can also become a felony charge if there are prior convictions or if the incident occurred in the presence of a child.
  • Theft crimes: Depending on the amount taken and the relationship between the accused and the alleged victim, theft crimes can be enhanced to felonies.

Do not take your criminal defense lightly. The Law Office of Julie Fred can help minimize the damage that these charges can have on your life.