Being charged with a crime in Tennessee can have serious consequences, whether it is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. While misdemeanors generally carry lighter penalties, they can still result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Felony convictions, on the other hand, come with much harsher consequences, including long-term imprisonment and loss of certain civil rights.
At Ooten Law Firm, we provide aggressive legal defense for individuals facing both misdemeanor and felony charges. Our experienced attorneys fight to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and explore all possible defense strategies to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
What is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
Criminal offenses in Tennessee are divided into misdemeanors and felonies based on the severity of the crime and the penalties associated with a conviction. Understanding the differences between these classifications is crucial in building a strong legal defense.
Types of Misdemeanor and Felony Charges
Criminal offenses are classified based on the severity of the crime and the potential penalties upon conviction.
- Class A Misdemeanors: The most serious type of misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and fines up to $2,500 (e.g., DUI, simple assault, theft under $1,000).
- Class B Misdemeanors: Carry up to six months in jail and fines up to $500 (e.g., reckless driving, prostitution).
- Class C Misdemeanors: The least severe misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $50 (e.g., public intoxication).
- Class A Felonies: The most severe felony charge, punishable by 15 to 60 years in prison and fines up to $50,000 (e.g., first-degree murder, aggravated rape).
- Class B Felonies: Punishable by 8 to 30 years in prison and fines up to $25,000 (e.g., drug trafficking, certain violent crimes).
- Class C Felonies: Carry 3 to 15 years in prison and fines up to $10,000 (e.g., aggravated assault, robbery).
- Class D Felonies: Punishable by 2 to 12 years in prison and fines up to $5,000 (e.g., reckless homicide, theft over $1,000).
- Class E Felonies: The least severe felony, with penalties of 1 to 6 years in prison and fines up to $3,000 (e.g., forgery, certain drug offenses).
Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, it is essential to have experienced legal representation to protect your rights and your future.
How We Defend Misdemeanor and Felony Charges
At Ooten Law Firm, we take a proactive approach to criminal defense, working to reduce or dismiss charges and minimize the impact of a conviction. We carefully evaluate each case and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.
Our criminal defense process includes:
Examining the Evidence
We review police reports, witness testimony, and physical evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Challenging the Arrest
We investigate whether law enforcement followed proper procedures and challenge any violations of your constitutional rights.
Negotiating for Reduced Charges or Alternative Sentencing
We work to have charges lowered or seek alternatives such as probation, diversion programs, or community service.
A criminal charge does not have to define your future. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony, the attorneys at Ooten Law Firm are ready to fight for you. Contact us today for a consultation.
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