A misdemeanor and a felony differ in the level of the crime which results in different amounts of time to potentially be punished. A misdemeanor is a crime that is is punishable by a fine and jail time of up to but no more than one year. A felony is a crime that is punishable by a fine and jail time of at least one year or more.
Hey, y'all! My name is Isabella, and I’m a Pre-Law college student learning how to navigate adulthood right alongside you! Today I will help you determine the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony.
*The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. I am not a licensed attorney. If you need legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction.*
What is a misdemeanor in alabama?
A misdemeanor, by definition, is a less serious crime.
You may be asking how much will I be fined for a misdemeanor? Well, this depends on your state and the crime committed. However, at least for my state, it can vary between $500-$6,000 depending on the crime.
The time served depends on the class level of misdemeanor you have committed. However, it will be up to but no more than one year in county jail.
Everything depends on what class it is categorized under. Keep reading to learn more about the different class categories.
Examples include public intoxication, resisting arrest, a minor in possession of alcohol, and carrying a concealed weapon without a permit.
What is a felony in Alabama?
A felony, by definition, is a more serious crime.
You may be asking how much will I be fined for a felony? Again, this depends on your state and the crime committed. Since felonies are more serious crimes, you can expect the fine to be significantly higher. It can vary between $7,500 and $60,000 in my state, depending on the crime.
The time served depends on the class level of felony you have committed. However, it will be at least one year or more in state prison.
Everything depends on what class it is categorized under. Keep reading to learn more about the different class categories.
Examples include: Murder, First-degree rape, First-degree arson, First-degree assault.
What are the different classes of misdemeanors in Alabama?
Class A Misdemeanor
A class A misdemeanor is usually, but not always, punishable by jail time of up to but no more than one year. Additionally, up to $6,000 of fines may accompany it.
Examples include domestic violence in the 3rd degree, cruel treatment of a dog or cat, and assault in the 3rd degree.
Class B Misdemeanor
A class B misdemeanor is usually, but not always, punishable by jail time of roughly 6 months. Additionally, up to $3,000 in fines may accompany it.
Examples include resisting arrest, public intoxication, and criminal trespass.
Class C Misdemeanor
A class C misdemeanor is usually, but not always, punishable by jail time of roughly 3 months. Additionally, up to $500 in fines may accompany it.
Examples include loitering, minor theft, and harassment.
What are the different classes of felonies in Alabama?
Class A Felony
A class A felony is usually, but not always, punishable by jail time of roughly 10 years to life. Additionally, up to $60,000 in fines may accompany it.
Examples include first-degree burglary, murder, and first-degree robbery.
Class B felony
A class B felony is usually, but not always, punishable by jail time of roughly anywhere from 2-20 years. Additionally, up to $30,000 in fines may accompany it.
Examples include manslaughter, drug trafficking, and auto theft.
Class C felony
A class C felony is usually, but not always, punishable by jail time of roughly anywhere from 1-10 years. Additionally, up to $15,00 in fines may accompany it.
Examples include forgery, looting, and breaking and entering a vehicle.
Class D Felony
A class C felony is usually, but not always, punishable by jail time of roughly anywhere from 1-5 years. Additionally, up to $7,500 in fines may accompany it.
Examples include fraud, low-level property crimes, and third-degree theft.
I hope this article helped you learn just a little bit more about the law and the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony. *Please remember that I am not a licensed attorney, so be sure to consult a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction if you need legal advice.*
With Love,
Isabella XO
