How Virginia Classifies Felony Crimes

    RICHMOND, VA, April 20, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Felonies are the most serious offenses a person can commit in Virginia. Depending on the class, a felony conviction can result in life in prison or years behind bars in a state correctional facility, coupled with huge fines.

According to the Virginia Code § 18.2-10, felonies are divided into six classes based on the different fine punishments and sentencing.

Class one felonies These are the most serious crimes a person can commit in Virginia. Examples include premeditated murder and sexual assault of a child under 15. The maximum punishments are Life imprisonment, and a fine of up to $100,000.

Class two felonies are also high-level crimes. Examples are armed burglary, armed bank robbery, kidnapping to gain ransom, and terrorism. The maximum punishments are jail terms that range from 20 years to life imprisonment, and fines of up to $100,000.

Class three felonies include arson, attempted poisoning, malicious wounding, burglary, and arson. The maximum punishments are 5 to 20 years imprisonment, and fines of up to $100,000.

Class four felony Crimes here include forging public documents, discharging a firearm near a school, or shooting at a vehicle. Maximum punishments are 2 to 10 years imprisonment, and fines of up to $100,000.

Examples of class five felonies include involuntary manslaughter, computer fraud ($500 or more), and extortion. Maximum punishments are one to 10 years imprisonment or confinement in jail for not more than 12 months, and fines of not more than $2,500.

Class six felonies are considered to be the least serious crimes in Virginia. Examples are animal cruelty and strangulation. Maximum punishments are one to five years imprisonment or confinement in jail for not more than 12 months, and fines of not more than $2,500.

Being charged with a felony, regardless of class, raises serious concerns. This is because even after serving the punishments, consequences remain binding on the individual for years.

These consequences can include,

• Loss of voting rights
• Restrictions on housing
• Restrictions on Job opportunities
• Restrictions on Scholarships
• Conditions in firearm possession, etc.

Lead attorney Cody Villalon advises, "Those who are accused of a felony in Virginia should hire a skilled criminal defense lawyer immediately to give themselves the best opportunity of avoiding conviction."

Cody Villalon is a highly skilled criminal defense attorney who has helped over 1000 clients around Richmond, NA, to get the best possible outcome from their criminal cases.

His heart of compassion and unwavering dedication to his clients drives him to relate with them on a personal level and to examine the intricacies of their cases while aggressively defending their rights in court. Contact Cody Villalon, Attorney at Law, at 804.316.0765.

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