Severity Range of Criminal Charges

Criminal Attorney Fairfax VA

Facing criminal charges is likely to be a daunting process. Charges range in severity depending on the crime you have been accused of. The last thing anyone wants to face is a court process infused with stress and anxiety. If convicted of the crime you have been charged with committing, the repercussions really depend on whether you obtained an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony conviction. Thankfully, when you work with a Fairfax VA criminal attorney, you can have the legal process clearly defined for you.

Criminal Infractions

Have you ever found yourself being pulled over by a police officer for a small infraction? A criminal infraction is less serious than a misdemeanor or felony charge. Common examples of infractions include:

• Fishing without a license
• Some moving vehicle violations
• Having an open container in public
• Jaywalking
• Littering

In most cases, the repercussions to an infraction may require that you pay a fine. Such a minor expense will not result in jail time. Some states do not even recognize an infraction as a criminal offense. It is important to note that sometimes being stopped or cited for an infraction could result in a more severe charge. Examples of this could include being pulled over for a broken tail light only for the officer to learn that the driver was in possession of drugs or holding an illegal weapon.

Misdemeanor Charges

A misdemeanor is more serious than an infraction and could even lead to jail time depending on the charges a defendant is facing. In most cases, when a person experiences jail time for a misdemeanor, the sentence will be no longer than 12 months, far less than someone who has been convicted of a felony. Depending on the crime that you commit, you could face consequences that could include:

• Probation
• Fines
• Community service
• Jail time

Examples of crimes that are classified as misdemeanors include:

• Illegal possessing a weapon
• DUI
• Simple assault
• Prostitution
• Public intoxication
• Drug possession
• Theft

There are some variations to this depending on the state in which you live. Although a misdemeanor is less severe than a felony charge, it can still have a significant impact on your life. Depending on your particular situation, it may be a good idea to discuss your options with a criminal attorney.

Felony Charges

The most serious of criminal charges is considered a felony. Felony crime classifications can cover a vast range of crimes. Examples of crimes that are classified as felonies include:

• Most assault charges
• Rape
• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Kidnapping
• Grand Larceny

Although consequences can vary, the following are some of the most common:

• Imprisonment in a correctional facility (not the county jail) could occur if convicted
• You may be required to pay legal fines and fees for an attorney and to the courts
• It may be difficult to obtain a job
• You may not be able to vote or carry a firearm

Because a felony conviction can have severe consequences, obtaining legal representation is likely to be in your best interest.

The legal process following a criminal charge is often complex. Ensuring that you are prepared for the road ahead will be an important component to weathering the consequences you may be forced to face. A criminal attorney Fairfax VA clients recommend from Dave Albo – Attorney can review the details of your case and legally strategize throughout the court process.