What is the Difference Between a Felony and Misdemeanor in Virginia?

In Virginia, like most states, criminal offenses are broken into two categories: felonies and misdemeanors. However, Virginia is a bit different in how they break down various felonies and misdemeanors. Virginia's criminal code uses a class system to distinguish between the penalties for various crimes.

A criminal offense that results in a felony conviction is more serious than an offense that results in a misdemeanor conviction. Virginia's felony system is broken into six different classes. A class 1 felony is the most serious type of crime and a class 6 felony is the least serious of the felony offenses. A class 1 felony can result in the death penalty or life imprisonment and a fine up to $100,000. A class 6 felony results in imprisonment for at least one year, but no more than five years, and a fine up to $2,500.

Virginia's misdemeanor system is broken into four classes, with a class 1 misdemeanor being the most serious. A class 1 misdemeanor will result in imprisonment up to 1 year and a fine up to $2,500. A class 2 misdemeanor will result in imprisonment up to 6 months and a fine up to $1,000. Class 3 and 4 misdemeanors do not result in jail time, and instead result in $500 and $250 fines, respectively.

If you've been charged with a crime in Virginia, call the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Portner & Shure for a free consultation: (703) 916-1227.