What is the Difference Between a Felony, Misdemeanor and Infraction?

In Missouri, there are three different types of criminal charges, including felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. The type of crime you are charged with is determined by the elements of the offense, as well as the range of punishment the individual could receive. These three criminal charge categories differ significantly and the law offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C. give you a reference guide below.

Infractions
An infraction, often called a violation or petty crime, is an offense that is typically penalized by fines, but not jail time. Traffic offenses are the most common form of infraction and these types of crimes may be handled in the municipal court.

Misdemeanor

A misdemeanor is less serious than a felony and tend to be the most common type of charge. Missouri categorizes misdemeanors into various classes: Class A through Class C. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious. Misdemeanor charges are issued by the state and include a wide range of offenses. Driving while intoxicated is a well known misdemeanor charge. Other misdemeanor offenses include vandalism, breaking and entering, and even theft. Though misdemeanors can remain on your criminal record, the offense may not have as serious consequences on job or housing applications as felonies. Misdemeanors often result in a short jail sentence, a fine and/or community service.   

Felony

Felony charges are the most serious level of offense in the Missouri criminal system. They are usually less serious that a Federal charge, but more serious than a misdemeanor or infraction. Felonies are categorized into various classes as well.  Class A felonies are the most serious and usually incur prison sentences. Class C and D felonies may offer probation, and with the help of an experienced attorney, a possibility of keeping the offense off your permanent record. Class B or Class C felonies include involuntary manslaughter in the first degree, statutory rape in the second degree, possession of a controlled substance, and theft.  Class D felonies are crimes such as fraud, resisting arrest, third degree domestic assault, and fraudulent check writing.


If you have been arrested in Missouri and are trying to understand exactly what your charge means, you need to be aware of the significant differences between these charges. The sentencing and impacts on your life could be very different. If you have been charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony, it is beneficial to speak with a criminal law attorney right away. Contact an experienced attorney at Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter & Welch P.C. to determine your next step. We are familiar with the local criminal court system and our knowledgeable attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks will assist you in making the right decisions about your case.

Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising. When you need a knowledgeable attorney, we invite you to contact us to set up a consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available. We have access to interpreters.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.

85 Court Circle N.W., P.O. Box 559
Camdenton, MO 65020   GET A MAP
(573) 346-7231 - Telephone
(888) 236-2485 - Toll Free
(573) 346-4411 - Fax

Like Us on Facebook

Location: Camdenton, MO 65020, USA

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

5 Reasons To Hire A Criminal Defense Attorney

Image
Criminal charges can turn your life upside down. If you are found guilty, you can suffer numerous consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and effect on your permanent record. If you are facing criminal charges, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can make a world of difference. Consider these reason why you should hire a criminal defense lawyer to represent your case. 1. Your Attorney Understands The Law It's no secret that the legal field is complex. Every law has exceptions, and every circumstance has different specific requirements. You need a criminal defense attorney that has experience dealing with these minute details and can help you use them to build a solid case. 2. Your Attorney Knows The Scene The Missouri Courts are like a world of their own. Each court has its own set of rules, social norms, and strict guidelines governing what behavior is and is not acceptable. If this is your first court case, you can not possibly know all of these unspo
Read more

Legal Tips to Be Aware of When Entering Into a Marriage

Image
Congratulations! It is 2019 and this is the year you are getting married. Among all of the wedding planning, you probably haven't had time to think about the legal side of getting married. While it is not the most glamorous side, it is worth taking a look into. For example, has your fiance brought up the notion of signing a prenuptial agreement (prenup)? It is best to know what all comes with a prenuptial agreement and the advantages and disadvantages of choosing to sign one. Our attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few legal tips to be aware of when entering into a marriage. If you find yourself need a prenuptial agreement drawn up, call Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, and Welch   today for your free consultation at 573-346-7231. Legal Tips to Be Aware of When Entering Into a Marriage Do You Plan to Legally Change Your Name After You Get Married? If you plan to change your legal name after marriage, here is what you need to do. According to the Misso
Read more

Consequences Of Having A Criminal Record

Image
If you are facing criminal charges, it is imperative that you contact one of our criminal defense attorneys in Camden County MO immediately. Criminal law is complex and involved, and representing yourself can be challenging, overwhelming, and risky. Regardless of whether or not you actually committed the crime in question, being found guilty can negatively impact your life for years to come. Here is a look at some of the consequences that may result from having a criminal record. Difficulty Getting Accepted Into Schools Schools have a moral and ethical responsibility to keep their students, faculty, and staff safe. On the applications for almost every university or college, applicants must list whether or not they have been convicted of a crime in the past. If the answer is yes, the applicants may experience greater difficulty getting accepted into the schools of their choice. These challenges pursuing higher education may, in turn, make it more difficult to find quality
Read more