The Differences between Misdemeanors and Felonies

May 25, 2024

While misdemeanors are less serious criminal charges than felonies, this fact in no way mitigates how much impact a misdemeanor conviction can have on your future. If you’re facing a criminal charge of any kind, understanding the differences between misdemeanors and felonies in California can help you better understand your own case. The most important thing you can do to protect your legal rights and your future, however, is to consult with an experienced Ventura County criminal defense attorney early in the process.

The Dividing Line between Misdemeanors and Felonies

The dividing line between misdemeanors and felonies in California is that the maximum sentence for a misdemeanor conviction is a year in jail. Felony convictions, on the other hand, come with potential prison sentences of more than a year. Further, the fines for misdemeanor convictions are capped at $1,000 in California, while the fines for felonies can go up to $10,000.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor charges are divided into two categories that include both standard and gross – or aggravated – misdemeanors. Standard misdemeanor charges are generally punishable by sentences of up to 6 months in county jail and fines of up to $1,000. Common examples include:

Gross misdemeanors carry sentences of up to a year, and the fines can exceed $1,000. Common examples include:

Wobblers are a variant charge that can be brought as either gross misdemeanors or felonies – depending upon the unique circumstances and the level of seriousness involved. Common examples include:

Alternative Sentencing for Misdemeanors

In misdemeanor cases, judges have the discretion to impose lighter sentences and can implement alternative sentencing options, such as the following:

Felonies

Felonies generally carry sentences of at least a year in prison and can go all the way up to life sentences without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty, although there has been a moratorium on executions in the state since 2019. California recently abolished mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug crimes, and judges – instead – take a range of variables into consideration during sentencing, including the criminal history of the accused. Common felony charges in the state include:

Consult with an Experienced Ventura County Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you’ve been charged with a crime, the skilled Ventura County criminal defense attorneys at Bamieh & De Smeth are committed to harnessing the full strength of their impressive experience and insight in focused pursuit of your case’s optimal outcome, and we welcome the opportunity to help. To learn more about what we can do to help you, please contact us online or call 805-643-5555 today.