Understanding Missouri’s Felony Classes

At Boehmer Law, we comprehend the complexities of Missouri’s felony classifications and recognize the significant impact a felony charge can have on your life. Let an experienced felony attorney on our team guide you through this challenging time, starting with a free consultation at 636-549-8300.

Why Hire Us?

By hiring a Missouri felony defense lawyer at Boehmer Law, you are choosing to work with a member of an award-winning team. Our firm and attorneys have received numerous awards and accolades, including being named to the Top 100 Trial Lawyers list, the American Academy of Trial Lawyers Premier 100 list, and a perfect 10.0 Avvo rating. With our strong reputation, you can feel confident that your case will be handled with care.

Deciphering Felony Classes

In Missouri, there are five different felony classes, each carrying distinct offenses and sentencing guidelines. Ranging from the most severe Class A to the least serious Class E, these classifications determine the severity of penalties upon conviction. This list of felony classes breaks down the nature of each:

• Class A Felony: The most serious crimes warrant terms of imprisonment ranging from ten years to life.
• Class B Felony: Carrying penalties of imprisonment from five to fifteen years.
• Class C Felony: This category is characterized by imprisonment for three to ten years.
• Class D Felony: Sentencing extends to a maximum of seven years.
• Class E Felony: The least severe classification, carrying imprisonment terms not exceeding four years.

Understanding the legal jargon associated with felonies is crucial. Here are a few commonly heard terms:

• Prior offender: Someone found guilty of one felony.
• Persistent offender: One found guilty of two or more felonies committed at different times.
• Persistent misdemeanor offender: Someone found guilty of two or more A or B misdemeanor offenses at different times.
• Dangerous offender: An individual sentenced for a felony involving knowingly endangering another’s life or inflicting serious physical injury, having been previously found guilty of a class A or B felony or a dangerous felony.
• Conditional release: The discharge of an offender by the board of probation and parole, subject to conditions aimed at assisting the offender to lead a lawful life under supervision.

If you’re facing a felony charge, understanding Missouri’s different felony classes is crucial. A felony conviction can profoundly impact your family, career and relationships. Our St. Charles criminal attorneys are dedicated to fighting for your rights. Contact a felony attorney at Boehmer Law today, and let us explore how we can assist you in this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri Felonies

What are the sentencing punishments for felonies?

The sentencing punishments for felony offenses in Missouri vary based on the nature of each crime. This list of felonies, along with their corresponding penalties, should give you an understanding of what to expect:

• Assault: A lower-level felony assault conviction can be punished by up to four years in prison. A higher-level felony assault conviction can be punished by up to 30 years or life in prison.
• Drug crimes: A lower-level felony drug conviction can be punished by up to seven years in prison. A higher-level felony drug conviction can be punished by up to 30 years or life in prison.
• Fraud: A lower-level felony fraud conviction can be punished by up to four years in prison. A higher-level felony fraud conviction can be punished by up to fifteen years in prison.
• Robbery: A felony robbery conviction in Missouri can be punished by a prison sentence of between five years and 30 years or life.
• Weapons crimes: A lower-level felony weapons conviction where a weapon was not discharged can be punished by up to four years in prison. A higher-level felony weapons conviction where a weapon was not discharged can be punished by up to ten years in prison. A felony weapons conviction where a weapon was discharged can be punished by a prison sentence of between five years and 30 years or life.

If the offense you were accused of is not on this list of felonies, you can consult a Missouri felony attorney to determine the penalties you could face if convicted.

Can you get probation for a felony in Missouri?

If you are convicted of a felony in Missouri, it is possible to get probation. Probation is most likely to be an option if you were convicted of a Class D or Class E felony offense; it is possible to receive probation for certain Class C felony offenses as well, such as involuntary manslaughter. The probation period following a felony conviction in Missouri can be as short as one year or as long as five years.

Call For Guidance And Advocacy

Don’t face a felony charge alone. Contact a felony defense lawyer at Boehmer Law for a free consultation. Call 636-549-8300 or contact us online to get started. We’re committed to providing you with the guidance and representation you need to navigate the complexities of the legal system.