Felony Charges: A Comprehensive Guide
Felony charges are serious criminal offenses with potentially long-lasting consequences. Pennsylvania classifies them into different levels, each with varying degrees of severity.
What Crimes Lead to Felony Charges in PA?
Felonies typically involve more serious offenses. They're punishable by substantial fines and imprisonment for one year or more. The list is lengthy and includes numerous types of crimes:
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Rape and Sexual Assault
- Robbery
- Aggravated Assault
- Burglary
- Kidnapping
- Arson
- Drug Trafficking and Distribution
- Grand Theft
- Identity Theft
- White-Collar Crimes
- Domestic Violence
- Hate Crimes
- Possession of Illegal Firearms
The majority of convicted felons in prison are there for drug crimes (44.4%), weapons and arson (12.4%), or sex offenses (12.4%). That's according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
If charged with a felony, consult a criminal lawyer near you to help determine the nature of your crime and potential penalty.
What are the levels of felony offenses in PA?
In Pennsylvania, crimes fall under three levels:
- Felony 1 (F1): This most severe felony offense can result in up to 20 years of jail time and fines up to $25,000. Examples include rape, arson, murder, kidnapping, and some gun crimes.
- Felony 2 (F2): Although considered less severe than F1, you face up to 10 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines. Common second-degree crimes include aggravated assault, property theft, statutory sexual assault, and burglary.
- Felony 3 (F3): is the least severe, leading to up to 7 years in prison and $15,000 fines. Examples include stalking, bribery, identity theft, perjury, and carrying a firearm without a license.
How much property is stolen to face felony charges?
If the value of the property taken is $2,000.00 or more, you face felony charges. In addition, if the offense involves a motor vehicle, boat, or airplane, the offense is a felony.
What makes a DUI a felony?
Most Pennsylvania DUI offenses result in misdemeanor charges. However, cases involving serious injury or death will likely bring felony charges.
Additionally, as your BAC increases, the penalties for DUI become more severe. For example, third offenses can result in felony charges. In addition, if you have two offenses with a BAC of .16 or higher, you face a felony conviction.
Regardless of level, with a third DUI, you will receive a felony charge.
Pennsylvania also has a 10-year "look back" period. So, a court will look to see if you have any DUI convictions within the last ten years.
Is drug possession a felony charge in PA?
Drug possession in Pennsylvania can be either a felony or a misdemeanor. It depends on the type and quantity of the controlled substance. For example, authorities often classify possession of a small amount of marijuana as a misdemeanor. However, possessing larger quantities or controlled substances may lead to criminal charges.
What is the difference between felony charges and a misdemeanor?
The key differences are the severity of the offense and the potential penalties. Felony charges relate to more severe crimes. They generally result in imprisonment for over a year. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are less severe and usually carry shorter sentences, if any.
However, with either, you should seek legal representation from a criminal lawyer. The criminal justice system and criminal laws are complex and support from an attorney is suggested.
Is hit and run a felony?
In Pennsylvania, you can face felony charges for a hit and run. That's especially true if the accident resulted in severe injury or death. Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and the severity of the charge depends on the circumstances.
Do first-time offenders go to jail in PA?
First-time offenders in Pennsylvania may or may not face prison sentences. It depends on the specific circumstances of the case, the level, and the judge's discretion. Pennsylvania has various sentencing options, including probation, fines, and intermediate punishment programs for eligible individuals.
Does Pennsylvania have a three-strike law?
Pennsylvania has two- and three-strikes laws. They mandate minimum terms of 10 and 25 years for certain second and third-time offenders. It applies to violent crimes such as:
- Third-degree murder
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Aggravated assault
- Sexual offenses
- Kidnapping
- Burglary
What happens after an indictment for felony charges?
After an indictment in a criminal case, the legal process continues with court proceedings. You will have the opportunity to defend yourself, either through negotiations or trial. Consulting with a felony lawyer or criminal defense attorney is essential. They can help you understand your indictment's specific implications and build a defense strategy.
Do felonies go away after seven years?
Felonies do not automatically go away after a certain number of years. In Pennsylvania, convictions generally remain on your criminal record permanently unless expunged.
Can you get a felony expunged?
In Pennsylvania, you can get some convictions expunged under specific circumstances. Typically, only non-conviction records or minor offenses are eligible for expungement. Consult a criminal defense lawyer to determine if your situation qualifies for expungement.
Can you get a passport with a felony?
It may affect your ability to obtain a passport, but it does not automatically disqualify you. However, some countries may deny entry to individuals with certain felony convictions. Check the specific passport requirements and restrictions for your situation.
Montgomery and Bucks County Criminal Lawyers
If you face felony charges, you should immediately talk with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Our criminal lawyers represent clients in Montgomery and Bucks County, PA. They can provide counsel with a defense strategy to eliminate or reduce your penalty.