Understanding Misdemeanor Vs. Felony Charges

In all 50 states and protected by the federal criminal code, there are two categories of charges that citizens can be prosecuted under. These charges include misdemeanor crimes and felony crimes. The moment you are faced with one of these capital charges within the state of Massachusetts, it is imperative to seek counsel from a criminal defense attorney MA. Read on to learn more about misdemeanor vs. felony charges and your options when seeking representation from The Law Offices of John C. Manoog III.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony – MisdemeanorMassachusetts Law defines a misdemeanor as any crimes that aren’t punishable under Massachusetts’ statutes by confinement in state prison. With that knowledge, these crimes tend to be less severe in nature.

Examples of Massachusetts misdemeanor crimes include:

• Fishing and hunting violations
• Most criminal motor vehicle offenses
• Disorderly conduct
• Concealment of merchandise
• Trespassing
• Drug possession

While both charges are damaging to your record, there are a few distinctions between misdemeanor vs. felony charges that make a big difference in your personal rights moving forward. Even though misdemeanors are less severe punishments, chances of jail time are still a possibility. To determine this possibility, misdemeanors are categorized into a class system.

Misdemeanor charges fall into one of these four class types:

• Class A1 Misdemeanor – Maximum jail time punishment of 150 days
• Class 1 Misdemeanor – Maximum jail time punishment of 120 days
• Class 2 Misdemeanor – Maximum jail time punishment of 60 days
• Class 3 Misdemeanor – Maximum jail time punishment of 20 days

Each class type will determine the representation process. For each misdemeanor charge, your criminal defense attorney MA professional will seek a cause for a dismissal of the charges, negotiate pre-trial probation, and discuss plead options. The best outcome for a misdemeanor trial would be winning the case at the clerk magistrate’s hearing, which will result in all charges related to the incident being expunged from your record.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony – FelonyOne of the largest differences between misdemeanor vs. felony charges is the severity and intent of the crime. Felonies are the most serious capital charge that you can receive and can significantly impact your future. Within the state of Massachusetts, felonies are punishable by confinement in state prison. The law will set forth the maximum punishment that you can receive for the crime.

Examples of Massachusetts felony crimes include:

• Kidnapping
• Rape
• Murder
• Indecent assault
• Burglary
• Gun charges

Our Cape Cod criminal defense lawyer team implores you to speak with your legal representative before discussing the case with anyone else. Your criminal defense attorney MA will be able to give you complete representation through our preparation process. To begin, your lawyer will assess the felony charge. In Massachusetts, one of the largest distinctions between misdemeanor vs. felony charges is the sentencing process. While misdemeanor charges fall under a class system, felonies are either “indeterminate,” meaning that the charge includes a range of punishment time, or only state the maximum punishment time for “habitual criminals.”

The Law Offices of John C. Manoog III | Criminal Defense Attorney MA ExpertsRegardless of your charge, our criminal defense attorney MA partners possess the experience, confidence, and skills that you seek. We are always prepared to take your case to trial through our in-depth case assessment process. The largest commonality found between misdemeanor vs. felony charges stands true – The Law Offices of John C. Manoog III is your choice for representation. Visit our website for more information regarding our services, practice areas, resources, and more.