Differentiating Between Misdemeanors And Felonies in North Carolina

If you are suspected of or have been accused of committing a crime, you need legal representation. Getting in contact with a lawyer who has a thorough understanding of North Carolina’s laws will help ensure that you are aware of your rights and that your case has the best possible outcome.

There are two types of crimes that an individual can be suspected of committing: misdemeanors and felonies.

• A misdemeanor is the less serious of the two. This charge may result in up to one year in prison.
• A felony has more severe consequences and can result in more than one year of prison time.

Types of Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors fall into 4 different categories that vary in level of severity.

Class 3 misdemeanors are the least serious out of all of them. If you are charged with this type of misdemeanor you can receive a sentence of up to 20 days in prison and a fine of up to $200.

Examples:

• City code violations
• Marijuana possession

Class 2 misdemeanors are punishable by up to 60 days in prison and a fine of up to $1000.

Examples:

• Disorderly conduct
• Assault
• Carrying a concealed weapon
• Resisting an officer

Class 1 misdemeanors are more serious than Class 3 and Class 2 misdemeanors. If you are charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor, you may face a prison sentence of up to 120 days, along with a fine.

Examples:

• Larceny
• Theft
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Property damage
• Prostitution

Class A1 misdemeanors are the most serious of all and have the most severe punishment. If you are charged with this type of misdemeanor, you may face up to 150 days in prison along with a fine, the amount of which is up to the discretion of the court.

Examples:

• Assault on a female
• Assault on a government employee
• Restraining order violation
• Sexual Battery
• Assault inflicting serious injury

Types of Felonies

Felonies are classified into 10 different categories: A, B1, B2, C, D, E, F, G, H, and I.

A Class I felony is the least serious type of felony. The maximum punishment is 24 months in prison. The most serious type of felony is a Class A felony. The maximum punishment is a sentence of life in prison or the death penalty

Examples of felonies:

• Embezzlement
• Involuntary manslaughter
• Driving while impaired
• Common-law robbery
• Arson
• Murder

In order to receive a guilty charge if your case goes to trial, your guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. This is why it is so important to have a skilled lawyer who has the necessary knowledge of the workings of North Carolina courtrooms. Our team of lawyers has the expertise necessary to investigate your situation and determine the best course of action for you.

If you are under trial for being suspected of committing or for having committed a crime, you have certain rights. Allow our team at The Nye Law Group to provide you with the legal guidance that you need. Contact us at (912) 200-5230 to learn more.