Facing criminal charges in Ohio can be overwhelming. Understanding the difference between misdemeanors and felonies is crucial when facing charges. The classification of your charge directly impacts potential penalties and long-term consequences for your future.
Understanding Ohio’s criminal classifications
Criminal offenses in Ohio are categorized based on their severity. The main distinction between misdemeanors and felonies is the potential jail time and the impact on your life after conviction. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses that typically result in:
- Maximum jail time of less than one year
- Confinement in county or local jails (not state prison)
- Fines generally under $1,000
- Fewer long-term consequences
Felonies, on the other hand, represent the most serious criminal charges you can face. These charges carry much heavier penalties and lasting repercussions.
Common misdemeanors and penalties
You might be surprised how many common offenses fall under the misdemeanor category. Ohio further divides these charges into classes based on severity. First-degree misdemeanors are the most serious and include:
- First-offense DUI
- Petty theft (under $1,000)
- Simple assault
- Reckless driving
For these offenses, you face up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Lesser misdemeanors include disorderly conduct, minor traffic violations and public intoxication, with reduced penalties ranging from fines to shorter jail terms.
Felony charges and their severe consequences
When charged with a felony in Ohio, you’re facing potential life-altering consequences. Felonies are categorized from first degree (most severe) to fifth degree (least severe).
Felony charges include:
- Drug trafficking
- Aggravated assault
- Burglary
- Grand theft
- Murder and manslaughter
Penalties for felonies are substantially more severe:
- First degree: Three to 11 years in prison and fines up to $20,000
- Second degree: Two to eight years in prison and fines up to $15,000
- Third degree: Nine to 36 months in prison and fines up to $10,000
- Fourth degree: Six to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000
- Fifth degree: Six to 12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500
Beyond prison time and fines, a felony conviction can strip you of voting rights and firearm privileges. It can also make finding employment or housing extremely difficult.
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, knowledgeable guidance from a skilled criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.