Being arrested and charged with any type of crime can be stressful and frightening, but there’s a significant difference between a felony and a misdemeanor crime in Nevada. Felonies carry much steeper criminal penalties than misdemeanors. Also, felony records are much more difficult to seal from public access, if you can seal them at all. Having a felony on your record can also block you from getting certain housing, affect your employment prospects, prevent you from getting a loan, and more. Understanding the nature of the criminal charges you are facing is the first step in mounting a strong defense against them.
How Are Felonies Classified in Nevada?
There are five categories of felonies in Nevada. From least serious to most serious, the felony classifications are:
- Category E – This category includes possession of illegal drugs. In some cases, the penalty is probation or some other diversionary program, but the maximum sentence is four years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 unless a greater fine is authorized or required by law.
- Category D – This category includes slightly more serious crimes, such as forgery and parental kidnapping. The maximum penalties are the same as Category E felonies, though you’re less likely to get probation.
- Category C – This category includes grand larceny, bribery or intimidation of a witness, and crimes of a similar scale. The maximum sentence is five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Category B – This category includes more violent crimes such as assault with a deadly weapon and robbery. The maximum sentence is 20 years in prison.
- Category A – This category includes serious violent crimes such as sexual assault, murder, or kidnapping in the first degree. The penalties include a lifelong prison sentence without the possibility of parole, and in certain cases with aggravated circumstances, the state can seek the death penalty.
What Is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?
Felonies are crimes in which the defendant faces a potential penalty of one year or more of imprisonment. Misdemeanors carry a penalty of up to six months in jail or up to 364 days for a gross misdemeanor. Additionally, fines associated with misdemeanor offenses are usually lower than fines for felony offenses. However, a misdemeanor charge can still negatively impact your future, so you want to avoid having a misdemeanor on your record if at all possible.
Contact Criminal Defense Lawyer Joel M. Mann Today
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge in Nevada, you want the help of an experienced defense attorney. Joel M. Mann knows what’s at stake and will fight for your rights at every turn. We represent clients throughout all of Nevada’s state and federal courts, defending the rights of people facing all types of felony or misdemeanor charges. Call our office today or fill our online form to set up a confidential consultation.
