What are the Differences Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor in Tennessee?
There are two categories of criminal offenses in Tennessee: the felony and the misdemeanor. Misdemeanors are less serious, carry lesser fines and penalties and are punishable by less than one year in jail. They include offenses such as prostitution, public intoxication, possession of less than a half-ounce of marijuana and theft of property valued under $500. Felonies are far more serious and include murder, assault, robbery, burglary, carjacking, rape and theft crimes valued at more than $500. Both categories of crimes should be taken extremely seriously, as a conviction can result in incarceration and heavy fines. Attorney Lonnie R. Hoover provides aggressive and experienced legal representation for both misdemeanors and felonies and offers a free case consultation.
Tennessee Felonies
Felonies fall into these categories:
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Capital crime: punishable by death and life imprisonment
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Class A felony: 15 to 60 years prison; $50,000 maximum fine
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Class B felony: 8 to 30 years prison; $25,000 maximum fine
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Class C felony: 3 to 15 years prison; $10,000 maximum fine
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Class D felony: 2 to 12 years prison; $5,000 maximum fine
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Class E felony: 1 to 6 years prison; $3,000 maximum fine
Felonies vary greatly and include, but are not limited to, murder, manslaughter, vehicular homicide, assault, robbery, burglary, rape and sexual battery, arson, incest, kidnapping, drug possession, manufacturing and trafficking, bribery, obstruction of justice, financial crimes, weapons charges, carjacking, some DUI/DWI offenses, computer crimes, identity theft, racketeering, white collar crimes and more.
Tennessee Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors fall into three categories:
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Class A: up to 1 year jail; $2,500 maximum fine
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Class B: up to 6 months jail; $500 maximum fine
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Class C: up to 30 days jail; $50 maximum fine
Tennessee misdemeanors include driving offenses, reckless driving, driving under the influence, possession of less than a half ounce of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, prostitution, speeding, shoplifting and some theft crimes, some domestic violence charges, and more. Many people mistakenly believe that a misdemeanor charge is not that important, but this is just not so. A misdemeanor conviction will result in a criminal record and can harm future employment opportunities, professional licensing status, the ability to obtain a student loan and more.
Franklin Felony and Misdemeanor Lawyer
Whether you were formally arrested and charged with an offense, or are under investigation, it is essential to obtain aggressive, competent and experienced representation at the earliest possible time. Attorney Lonnie R. Hoover will pursue the most beneficial outcome for your case, and whenever possible, may seek a dismissal, reduction of charges, satisfactory plea bargain, probation, diversionary program or other alternative outcome rather than incarceration. To schedule a free case review, contact The Law Office of Attorney Lonnie R. Hoover in Franklin, Tennessee. Attorney Hoover represents clients in Franklin and throughout the state.