The Difference Between Misdemeanors And Felonies
In criminal defense cases, depending on the severity of the crime, a person can be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony.
What is a Misdemeanor?
As stated in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 9A.20.010, a simple misdemeanor is any crime that accrues penalties of:
Receiving a fine of one thousand dollars or less, OR
Imprisonment in a county jail for less than ninety days, OR
A combination of both payment of fines and jail time
It can be noted that the above states a “simple” misdemeanor. That is because a misdemeanor can be filed under two different categories: simple or gross. While a gross misdemeanor is the worst misdemeanor to be charged with, it is still not as extreme as a felony.
Here are few examples of the difference between a simple misdemeanor and a gross misdemeanor:
Simple misdemeanors can be a charge of marijuana possession or shoplifting
Gross misdemeanors can be as complex as a DUI charge or theft of something worth almost $750
What is a Felony?
Interesting enough, felonies do not technically have a definition. However, this is because the severity for each crime listed in RCW Chapter 9A is different. For that reason, felonies are more serious and unpleasant than misdemeanors or gross misdemeanors, as they can result in higher payment of fines, over ninety days of jail time, or more.
Not to mention, felonies can also fall under three different classifications: Class A, Class B, or Class C felony. A Class C felony has the lowest amount of penalties, and Class A felonies are the worst to be charged with.
Let’s See an Example of Misdemeanor and Felony Charges
In court, someone has just been charged with theft. In Washington state, theft has three varying degrees: first, second, and third. These degrees hold the severity of the crime–with theft being the value of property stolen–along with the consequences of the charge.
First degree theft is a charge as a result of stealing something worth over $5,000 in value. If a person is convicted of this crime, you will receive a Class B felony with its respected penalties
Second degree theft is charged as a result of stealing something with a value over $750. If convicted, you will receive a Class C felony and its consequences
Third degree theft is given when the value stolen is worth no more than $750. It is the least severe of the three, and results in a gross misdemeanor
Contact Verity Criminal Defense To Defend You
From domestic violence to drug crimes, these grave crimes can come with heavy penalties. Our criminal defense attorneys work closely with their clients to aid and support them during stressful times. Contact us today to learn more about how we can defend your case.