When you’re facing a felony charge in Missouri, the potential consequences can vary significantly based on the specific class of felony involved. Missouri’s felony classification system plays a central role in determining the range of punishments you could be facing if convicted.
As attorneys who dedicate our practice exclusively to criminal law, we know how important it is for our clients to have a clear understanding of these classifications and their implications. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of Missouri’s felony classes, the associated sentencing ranges, and the key factors that can impact the outcome of your case.
Missouri’s Felony Classification System
In Missouri, felonies are categorized into five classes, ranging from the most serious (Class A) to the least serious (Class E). Each class carries a specific range of prison time and, in some cases, the possibility of fines or probation.
Class A Felonies
Class A felonies are the most severe and carry the harshest punishments. If you’re convicted of a Class A felony in Missouri, you could face a prison sentence of 10 to 30 years or even life imprisonment. An example of a Class A felony would be Murder in the Second Degree.
Class B Felonies
Class B felonies are also considered serious crimes and carry a potential prison sentence of 5 to 15 years. Examples of Class B felonies in Missouri include Burglary 1st Degree and Voluntary Manslaughter.
Class C Felonies
Class C felonies are punishable by a prison term of 3 to 10 years. A fine of up to $10,000 may also be imposed. Stealing $25,000 or More, Delivery of a Controlled Substance, and Involuntary Manslaughter in the First Degree are examples of Class C felonies in Missouri.
Class D Felonies
Class D felonies carry a potential prison sentence of 2 to 7 years or a special term of imprisonment of up to one year in the county jail. A fine of up to $10,000 may also be imposed. Examples of Class D felonies in Missouri include Possession of a Controlled Substance, Forgery, Stealing $750 or More, Domestic Assault 2nd Degree, and Assault 2nd Degree.
Class E Felonies
Class E felonies are the least serious felony offenses in Missouri and are punishable by 2 to 4 years in prison or a special term of imprisonment not to exceed one year in the county jail. A fine of up to $10,000 may also be imposed. Assault 3rd Degree, Domestic Assault 3rd Degree, Fraudulent Use of a Credit-Debit Device with a Value of $750 or More, Unlawful Use of Weapons, and Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Property Damage of $1,000 or More are examples of Class E felonies.
Factors That Influence Sentencing
While the felony classification system provides a framework for sentencing, there are several other factors that can impact the actual sentence handed down by the court. These include:
- Prior criminal history: If you have a history of criminal convictions, especially felonies, you may face harsher sentencing for a new offense.
- Aggravating and mitigating circumstances: The specific facts of your case, such as the use of a weapon or the vulnerability of the victim, can lead to more severe sentencing. On the other hand, mitigating factors, like lack of prior offenses or cooperation with authorities, may result in a more lenient sentence.
- Plea agreements and sentencing negotiations: Your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor, which can result in reduced charges or a more favorable sentence.
- Judicial discretion: Judges have some discretion within the sentencing ranges provided by law, which means they can take into account various factors when deciding on an appropriate sentence.
Consequences of a Felony Conviction in Missouri
Beyond the immediate punishment, a felony conviction in Missouri can have long-lasting consequences that affect various aspects of your life, including:
- Employment: Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony conviction can make it challenging to find work, especially in certain fields.
- Housing: Landlords may also run background checks, making it difficult to secure housing with a felony on your record.
- Civil rights: Felony convictions can lead to the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to possess a firearm.
- Enhanced sentences for future offenses: If you’re convicted of another crime in the future, a prior felony conviction can lead to more severe sentencing.
It’s important to note that Missouri does have an expungement law that allows certain felony convictions to be removed from your record after a specified waiting period. However, not all felonies are eligible for expungement, and it’s crucial to consult with an experienced expungement attorney, like our team at Rose Legal Services, to determine your eligibility.
Our Felony Defense Attorneys Are Here to Protect Your Future
At Rose Legal Services, we are passionate about helping good people get a second chance. With over 20 years of experience, we have served many individuals who have been charged, arrested, or investigated for a crime in Missouri. We believe in the potential for a brighter future, and we’re here to help you navigate the legal process.
We’re not here to judge you – we’re here to listen, understand, and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case.
When you work with Rose Legal Services, you’re not just a case number – you’re part of our family. We pride ourselves on providing top-notch client service and communication. From our Client Care Specialists, who are always ready to answer your questions, to our attorneys, who work to build your defense strategy, we’re here for you every step of the way.
Don’t let a felony charge dictate the rest of your life. Take control of your future and contact Rose Legal Services today.