What Are the Differences between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges?
You likely know that misdemeanor charges are less serious than felony charges, but that may be the extent of your understanding. If you are facing a criminal charge of any kind, knowing more about it can help make navigating the path forward less challenging. While the distinction between misdemeanor and felony charges is the severity of the consequences you will face, it’s important to know that you can spend time behind bars and pay steep fines for either. If you’ve been charged with a crime, it’s time to consult with an experienced Greenville criminal defense attorney.
Misdemeanor Charges
In South Carolina, misdemeanor charges are categorized into classes, and the dividing line between these charges and felonies is that the maximum sentence for misdemeanors is three years in jail. Consider the following basics:
- Class A misdemeanors carry jail sentences of up to 3 years along with fines of up to $3,000. Common examples include second-degree assault and battery and first-degree harassment.
- On the other hand, Class B misdemeanors carry jail sentences of up to 2 years along with fines of up to $2,000. Common examples include submitting false claims for benefits and criminal mischief.
- Finally, Class C misdemeanors carry jail sentences of up to 1 year along with fines of up to $1,000. Common examples include first-offense simple possession of marijuana and driving under a suspended license.
Those misdemeanor charges that fall outside of these classifications are called exempt misdemeanors, and they carry no more than a year in jail and fines that start at $500. It’s important to know that because there are no mandatory misdemeanor sentencing guidelines in South Carolina, judges have considerable discretion when sentencing for misdemeanor convictions.
Felony Charges
Felony charges apply to very serious crimes, such as rape, armed robbery, kidnapping, and murder. The State of South Carolina has six felony classifications that range all the way from Class A to Class F charges. Class A is reserved for very serious crimes that include attempted murder, armed robbery, and kidnapping, and the classes are calibrated downward from here. A Class A felony conviction carries a maximum sentence of 30 years, while a Class F sentence carries a maximum sentence of 5 years.
South Carolina also imposes sentences that can extend up to life, including 30 years to life for murder and 25 years to life for first-degree criminal sexual conduct with a child. Additionally, South Carolina has life sentences without the possibility of parole and the death sentence, which are reserved for the most heinous crimes.
Turn to an Experienced Greenville Criminal Defense Lawyer for the Help You Need
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, the stakes are high, but the practiced Greenville criminal defense attorneys at Ryan Beasley Law have the experience, drive, and legal insight to skillfully defend your rights – in focused pursuit of a favorable case resolution. For more information about how we can help, please contact us online or call 864-362-2352 today.