It can take years to gain a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system. But if you or someone you know was just charged with a crime, you might not have all that time. Luckily, you can gain a better understanding of criminal charges by learning the difference between the two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Use this guide to differentiate between these terms before meeting with a criminal defense attorney.

Misdemeanors

Of the two, misdemeanors are less serious crimes, so they result in less jail time and smaller fines. In Wisconsin, some misdemeanors don’t result in jail sentences at all, but those that do take place in a county jail.

There are three subsets within the misdemeanor category: classes A, B, and C. Class C misdemeanors are the most minor, resulting fines of up to $500 and up to a month in jail. Class B misdemeanors, like disorderly conduct, can result in up to 90 days imprisonment and up to $1,000 in fines. At the most severe end of the spectrum, Class A misdemeanors—like battery and thefts of under $2,500—can result in fines of up to $10,000 and up to nine months in prison.

Felonies

In general, felonies are more severe in nature than misdemeanors, and they usually carry a sentence of at least one year in jail or more. Unlike misdemeanors, felony jail time is served in the state prison system, not in county jails.

There are nine classes of felonies in Wisconsin, ranging from A to I. The mildest felonies are known as Class I, and they can result in up to $10,000 in fines or 3.5 years in prison. Examples of Class I felonies include a second charge for cocaine possession, or the possession of child pornography. 

Class D felonies include a hit-and-run involving a fatality, or the possession of Amphetamines with the intent to sell. They may result in fines of up to $100,000, or up to 25 years of imprisonment.

Class B felonies, such as aggravated arson, could lead to up to 60 years in prison. The most severe criminal category, a Class A felony, often results in a lifetime prison sentence. Examples of Class A felonies include premeditated murder in the first degree, or the sexual assault of a person under age 13.

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, let Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt be your guide. This Sparta, WI-based firm houses four attorneys, so you’ll always have an attentive legal professional in your corner. All their lawyers are members of the Monroe County Bar Association, and they’re licensed to provide representation throughout the state. To learn about their criminal defense work and other practice areas, visit the website, or call (608) 269-2400 to schedule a free consultation with an attorney.