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Across the states, a misdemeanor is defined as a crime that is “less serious” than a felony. Misdemeanors may be punishable by a fine or county jail term, whereas state felonies are dealt with by the state and can result in a prison term, depending on the severity of the crime. With a criminal defense attorney, you can get the support and representation you need to protect your rights and your future.
When charged with a misdemeanor or felony, it’s important to know what rights you have to exercise before moving forward with your case.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can work on your behalf and help reduce some of the consequences such as losing your license, having the conviction on your record, or jail/prison time.
If you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges in Kansas or Missouri, call Kitchin Law Firm today and find out how we can work with you to handle your case most effectively.
Since not all misdemeanors are created equal, it’s helpful to have a basic level understanding of the classifications, and know which category your criminal charge may fall under. In Kansas and Missouri, misdemeanors are categorized by class: Class A (most serious), Class B and Class C (least serious).
The sentencing process for felonies differs state by state. When a person is charged with a felony in Kansas, the state uses a sentencing grid to determine the sentencing for the felony charge. In Missouri, sentencing for felony charges are broken down by classifications.
Kansas uses a complex sentencing grid with issued guidelines for both drug crimes and non-drug crimes.
Two factors that impact sentencing for a felony charge are:
-The severity level of the crime itself
-One’s past criminal history.
The severity level for felony drug crimes are classified as levels 1 – 5, with a level 1 being the most serious offense, and a level 5 being the least serious offense.
The severity level for felony non-drug crimes are classified as levels 1 – 10, and just as with drug crimes a level 1 is the most serious offense, while a level 10 is the least serious offense.
The second factor that determines a felony sentence is one’s criminal history, which is classified by letters “A” through “I.” A criminal history of “A” is the highest criminal history score representing 3 or more felonies; while a criminal history of “I” means you only have 1 misdemeanor conviction, or no criminal convictions at all.
If you’re charged with or facing a felony charge in Missouri, you may be subject to time in prison.
Missouri Felonies are punishable as follows:
Class A – a term that is at least 10 years, but will not exceed 30 years, or life imprisonment
Class B – a term that is at least 5 years, but will not exceed 15 years in prison
Class C – a term that is at least 3 years, but will not exceed 10 years in prison
Class D – a term up to 7 years in prison
Class E – a term up to 4 years in prison
Taking actionable steps without legal representation at your defense can hinder the possibility of obtaining a positive outcome for your case. When you choose Kitchin Law Firm, you get a trusted attorney with more than 25 years of experience, working hard to protect your rights and your future.
Having a criminal record, even for the most minor crimes, can negatively impact your life in more ways than one — like renting a house or apartment, applying for college, or getting a decent job.
Bright side? Being accused of a crime doesn’t have to make you a criminal.
With the right legal representation, you can move forward confidently knowing your attorney is working to build a strong foundation for your case to help give you the positive resolution you’re hoping for.
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