When categorizing crimes, you will most likely hear the terms felony and misdemeanor used most often. While the definitions of these terms can vary from state to state, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two from the severity of the crime itself to the trial length.
The severity of the crime
Misdemeanors overall tend to be less severe of a crime than felonies. A misdemeanor could be a traffic offense, minor theft, assault that doesn’t involve a weapon, or minor drug possession. Felonies, on the other hand, are considered to be much more serious in nature. Some examples of felonies include kidnapping, murder, arson, grand theft, sexual assault, white collar crimes, and manslaughter.
Loss of rights
A misdemeanor will not always have a jury trial. However, if an individual has served their time for a misdemeanor crime, they are still allowed to do things like vote and purchase firearms. When it comes to a felony, the defendant is entitled to a jury trial. Individuals that have served time for felonies may lose certain rights such as running for office, voting, purchasing firearms, and more.
Incarceration time and place
Because felonies are more severe than misdemeanors, they are accompanied by a longer incarceration time in federal or state penitentiary. A misdemeanor typically gets less than a year of incarceration in a county or municipal jail.
Trial length
Felonies are more complex than misdemeanor cases and require more time in trial. With any type of crime, you will want a lawyer that is on your side and fighting for your best interests.
Do you need an experienced criminal defense attorney?
To be convicted of a crime in Texas, it must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt. Let Stockard, Johnston, Brown, Netardus & Doyle, P.C. help navigate you through this process. Please schedule a meeting today. We will take the time to understand your issue and do our best to get you the outcome that you deserve.