An arrest for a crime can be an unnerving experience. From the moment you are handcuffed to the instant when you are standing in front of a judge, it can be a whirlwind. Knowing your rights and the crime you are being accused of is integral for your survival through the justice system. As such, it is sensible to be aware of the different crimes and their associated penalties and consequences.
In Pennsylvania, crimes are either classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The most serious of the two is a felony. In many instances, the more severe the crime, the more likely it will be a felony. Felonies carry the harshest penalties and consequences. They usually involve serious to severe physical harm to another person or persons. However, not all felony crimes are violent. Non-violent felony crimes typically consist of a financial offense. An example of a non-violent felony is a white-collar crime or fraud.
Facing felony charges can be terrifying and stressful. Accordingly, you should never endure a felony charge on your own without the legal guidance of an experienced Philadelphia criminal defense attorney. Prosecutors are relentless when it comes to convicting a person of a crime. You could be looking at years, decades, or life in prison if you are not well represented. The Rooney Philly Lawyer has successfully defended countless felony cases. As a resolute Philadelphia criminal defense attorney, the Rooney Philly Lawyer is committed to protecting your rights and freedom.
If you have been charged with a felony, do not hesitate to contact the Rooney Philly Lawyer for an in-depth consultation.
What Constitutes A Felony In Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania categorizes felonies as follows:
- Felony Murder: In Pennsylvania, murder is separated into its own degrees. Murder in the first degree is a capital offense in the state, which is punishable by death. Or, a person can be sentenced to life in prison. Murder in the second degree can result in life in prison. Murder in the third degree has a maximum sentence of 40 years. Examples of murder in the third degree include attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder with bodily harm. If there is no bodily harm, the maximum penalty is 20 years.
- Felony in the 1st Degree: Aside from felony murder, a felony in the 1st degree is the most serious charge. A conviction can result in 10 to 20 years in prison with a fine of up to $25,000. Examples of felonies in the 1st degree include aggravated assault, rape, kidnapping, arson, and theft worth $500,000 or more.
- Felony in the 2nd Degree: A conviction for a felony in the 2nd degree can result in five to ten years in prison with a maximum fine of up to $25,000. Examples of a felony in the 2nd degree include sexual assault, involuntary manslaughter, theft worth less than $500,000 but more than $100,000.
- Felony in the 3rd Degree: The least of the felonies is a felony in the 3rd degree. A conviction can result in three and a half to seven years in prison with a maximum fine of up to $15,000. Examples of a felony in the 3rd degree include gun crimes, bribery, and theft worth less than $100,000 but more than $2,000.
The degree of a crime will be based on the severity, and the penalties will correlate with the degree.
What Are The Consequences of A Felony?
A felony conviction can bring about a slew of adverse consequences and ramifications. The effects of a conviction can follow you for the rest of your life and cost you the things that matter to you most. In addition to a criminal record, prison time, and substantial fines, you can lose your job, family, friends, finances, and freedom. You may find it hard to find adequate living arrangements. Many landlords are wary about renting to a person with a criminal record, let alone a felony. Moreover, it can be extremely difficult to keep or find a job. If you are a professional, such as a doctor, lawyer, teacher, nurse, or accountant, you could lose your professional license or career due to a felony conviction. You can lose your right to vote, your immigrant visa status if you are not a US citizen, or get deported. The consequences are numerous.
If you are being charged or investigated for a crime, it is imperative to seek the professional legal representation of a Philadelphia criminal defense attorney right away. The Rooney Philly Lawyer recognizes the gravity of a criminal conviction and the negative effect it can bear on your life. As an expert Philadelphia criminal defense attorney, the Rooney Philly Lawyer will aggressively defend your case. Our goal is to make sure that our clients receive exceptional legal advocacy and the best possible outcome in their case.
Contact the Rooney Philly Lawyer today for a personalized consultation.
