Felony vs. Misdemeanor- What’s the Difference in Utah?

Felony vs. Misdemeanor: Understanding the Key Differences in Utah

If you’re facing criminal charges in Utah, understanding the difference between a felony vs. misdemeanor conviction is crucial. The classification of your charge can significantly impact your life, from potential penalties to long-term consequences.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor: The Main Difference

The most significant distinction between a felony vs. misdemeanor conviction is the potential for prison time.

• Felony: A felony conviction can lead to imprisonment in state prison and results in severe collateral consequences, including the loss of civil liberties such as the right to vote and own firearms.
• Misdemeanor: A misdemeanor conviction, on the other hand, is punishable by a shorter jail term in a county facility (up to 364 days) or a fine. Prison time is not possible for misdemeanors.

Utah’s Criminal Convictions Classifications

Utah divides crimes into three main categories: Felonies, Misdemeanors, and Infractions.

Felony Classifications in Utah

Felonies are the most serious criminal offenses and can result in significant penalties, including imprisonment, fines, or both. Utah recognizes four categories of felonies:

• Capital Felony: Punishable by life imprisonment, life without parole, or the death penalty.
• First Degree Felony: Punishable by five years to life in prison.
• Second Degree Felony: Punishable by one to 15 years in prison.
• Third Degree Felony: Punishable by zero to five years in prison.

A felony conviction can severely impact your civil liberties and future opportunities, including employment, housing, and licensing.

Misdemeanor Classifications in Utah

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but can still carry serious consequences. Utah divides misdemeanors into three categories:

• Class A Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 364 days in county jail.
• Class B Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to six months in county jail.
• Class C Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 90 days in county jail.

While misdemeanors do not lead to prison time, they can still result in fines, probation, and a criminal record that impacts job opportunities and housing applications.

Infractions in Utah

Infractions are the least severe offenses and do not involve any incarceration. Penalties for infractions usually include fines or community service.

Getting Felony Charges Reduced or Dismissed

One of the most critical roles of a Utah criminal defense attorney is to help clients avoid the harsh consequences of a felony conviction. This can involve:

• Plea Bargaining: Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors when appropriate.
• Case Dismissal: Identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to seek a dismissal of charges.

Plea bargaining is an essential part of Utah’s criminal justice system and can result in significantly reduced penalties.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor: Collateral Consequences

Both felonies and misdemeanors carry collateral consequences that extend beyond the courtroom:

• Felony Convictions: Loss of voting rights, firearm ownership, and challenges in obtaining employment, housing, or professional licenses.
• Misdemeanor Convictions: While less severe, misdemeanors can still impact financing, housing applications, and job opportunities.

Understanding the implications of a felony vs. misdemeanor conviction is essential to navigating the legal process and protecting your future.

Why Choose Jake Gunter as Your Criminal Defense Attorney?

Attorney Jake Gunter has nearly 20 years of experience defending individuals accused of crimes in Utah. He specializes in:

• Reducing felony charges to misdemeanors.
• Achieving favorable plea deals when appropriate.
• Fighting aggressively for case dismissals.

Contact Jake Gunter for Expert Legal Defense

If you or a loved one faces criminal charges, understanding the difference between a felony vs. misdemeanor can make all the difference in your case. Call or text (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation with Utah criminal defense attorney Jake Gunter. Let his 20 years of courtroom experience work for you.

Learn More About Criminal Defense Lawyer Jake Gunter

For additional insights on Criminal Defense Law and to get to know Jake Gunter better, check out these helpful videos:

• Meet Jake Gunter – Learn more about Jake Gunter’s background, experience, and dedication to helping clients throughout Utah.
• How to Choose a Utah Personal Injury Attorney – This video offers guidance on selecting the right personal injury attorney to ensure you receive effective representation.
• What Jake Gunter Does and Who He Represents – Discover the types of cases Jake Gunter handles and how he advocates for the rights of injured individuals statewide.

These resources will provide you with valuable information as you consider your legal options. For any questions or to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out to us directly.