There are two classifications of criminal offenses in Indiana: felonies and misdemeanors. Generally speaking, misdemeanor offenses are considered to be less serious than felonies, though ALL criminal charges should be taken very seriously. Even a misdemeanor conviction can come with life-altering consequences.
The Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell handles the defense against all levels of criminal charges. Whether you believe you are facing minor misdemeanor charges or you are accused of a violent felony, it is critical to have the right defense representation as soon as possible. Our law firm can identify all possible ways to defend against your criminal charges and minimize the consequences you face, no matter what the allegations might be.
Reach out for a consultation to discuss your arrest, charges, and how we can help.
The most serious charge in Indiana is murder, which is a capital offense. Below murder charges, felonies are classified as follows, with the following potential imprisonment sentences:
Felony convictions can also mean court-ordered fines of up to $10,000. The above sentences can be increased if there are aggravating factors or the defendant is a habitual offender.
Examples of felony offenses in Indiana include aggravated rape (Level 1), voluntary manslaughter (Level 2), aggravated battery causing injury (Level 3), unlawful firearm possession by a violent felon (Level 4), involuntary manslaughter (Level 5), and vehicle theft (Level 6).
Misdemeanors are less severe, as there is no possibility of imprisonment for more than one year. In addition, most misdemeanor convictions involve probation instead of automatic jail time. The possible penalties are still harsh, however, and include:
Spending a couple of months in jail can disrupt your life, often causing you to lose your job and other consequences. Fines of a few thousand dollars can ruin your financial situation. Even if you receive probation, the terms can be highly restrictive and can affect your life in many ways.
You want the best possible criminal defense attorney on your side for any type of criminal charge – felony or misdemeanor. Our attorney can work to avoid a conviction whenever possible. If you are convicted, we can fight for minimal penalties, given the circumstances.
When seeking defense help for a felony or misdemeanor charge, look no further than the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell. We take every case seriously, and we fight for your rights and future. Contact us to learn more.
We can help you get through your legal crisis. Contact the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell today.