When someone is facing criminal charges, these might be misdemeanor or felony offenses. What are the differences? The consequences of a misdemeanor or felony conviction can be substantial. They can affect everything from your job prospects to your freedom. 

Here’s a breakdown of the difference between misdemeanors and felonies in Wisconsin and what you need to know if you are facing charges.

What Is a Misdemeanor?

While still serious, it is not as consequential as a felony. In the state, these offenses are divided into three classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C

Class A misdemeanors are the most serious of the three. If convicted, you could face up to nine months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000. Some of these offenses include:

• Battery
• Theft of property worth under $2,500
• Disorderly conduct

Class B misdemeanors are a step down from Class A. These carry a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000. Some common examples include trespassing or possessing a small amount of marijuana.

Class C misdemeanors are the least serious charges. In most cases, these can carry a fine of up to $500 or a maximum jail sentence of 30 days. Public intoxication and some minor traffic violations fall into this category.

While misdemeanors tend to come with less severe penalties, a conviction will become a part of your criminal record. 

What Is a Felony?

Felonies are the more serious of these offenses. Along with that, they carry the strictest penalties. These crimes are divided into several classes:

• Class A felonies are the most severe. A conviction for a Class A felony can result in life imprisonment. In some cases, that could mean that there is no possibility of parole. 
• Class B felonies often lead to a prison sentence of up to 60 years. These can include crimes such as first-degree sexual assault or aggravated battery.
• Class C felonies are less severe but still have hefty prison time. Second-degree sexual assault or robbery can lead to these charges.
• Class D felonies have a maximum prison sentence of 25 years. A few examples include burglary or certain types of assault.
• Class E felonies fall on the lower end of the felony scale. However, they can still result in up to 15 years in prison. Large-scale theft or embezzlement are part of this group. 
• Class F to I felonies carry penalties ranging from 3.5 to 12.5 years imprisonment and fines up to $25,000. These include offenses like stalking, forgery, and property damage. Though less severe than higher classes, they still have major consequences.

Along with lengthy prison sentences, felony convictions can result in substantial fines and the loss of civil rights, including the right to vote or possess firearms.

The Differences Between Misdemeanors and Felonies

The most obvious difference is that felonies are more serious offenses than misdemeanors. Since felonies tend to involve greater harm to victims or society, a conviction’s consequences are more serious. 

Even the legal process is slightly different. Felony cases tend to involve more legal procedures and can take longer to resolve. On the other hand, misdemeanors might be resolved more quickly and with less impact on your life. 

Once the sentence is served, felony offenders might be eligible for supervised release. However, that will depend on the severity of the crime and other factors. Misdemeanor offenses do not have this option since their sentences are shorter.

Legal Help for Your Criminal Offense

So why does it matter whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges? The answer is easy: the consequences of a conviction can be life-changing. Even a misdemeanor conviction can impact your life, but a felony conviction can haunt you for years. 

In Wisconsin, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is more than just legal jargon. This distinction can drastically affect your life. 

If you’re facing any charges, you will want to seek experienced criminal defense help. At Melms Law, our team is ready to fight these charges against you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.