WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT FELONLY CLASSES AND PENALTIES IN MISSOURI?

Understanding Felony Classes in Missouri and Their Penalties

In Missouri, not all felonies are treated equally. The law separates them into five different classes, each with its own range of penalties. Whether you’re facing a Class A felony or a Class E, knowing what these categories mean is essential for understanding the stakes — and how a criminal defense lawyer can help.

If you’ve been charged with a felony in Kansas City, call KC Defense Counsel immediately. Our experienced Kansas City felony defense attorneys can walk you through Missouri’s felony classes, and help you understand what you’re facing from the court system and how to build your defense..

FELONLY CLASSES IN MISSOURI

Missouri law (RSMo 558.011) divides felonies into five main classes:

Class A Felony — (The Most Serious):

• Prison sentence: 10–30 years, or life in prison.

Examples:

• First-degree murder
• First-degree robbery with a deadly weapon
• First-degree assault causing serious injury

Notes: Class A felonies are the most severe crimes under Missouri law and often involve violence, serious injury, or death.

Class B Felony:

• Prison sentence: 5–15 years.

Examples:

• Voluntary manslaughter
• First-degree burglary
• First-degree assault without life-threatening injury

Notes: Still extremely serious — judges rarely give probation for violent Class B felonies.

Class C Felony:

• Prison sentence: 3–10 years
• Fine: Up to $10,000

Examples:

• Second-degree robbery
• Possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute
• Stealing property worth $25,000 or more

Notes: Class C felonies can sometimes be negotiated down to lesser charges, depending on the case.

Class D Felony:

• Prison sentence: Up to 7 years.
• Fine: Up to $10,000.

Examples:

• Certain drug possession charges
• Forgery
• Second-degree assault

Notes: These crimes are serious but may be eligible for alternative sentencing, especially for non-violent offenders.

Class E Felony – The Least Severe Felony Category

• Prison sentence: Up to 4 years.
• Fine: Up to $10,000.

Examples:

• Resisting arrest
• Low-level property crimes over $750 in value
• Possession of certain prohibited weapons

Notes: While less serious than higher classes, Class E felonies still leave you with a permanent criminal record if convicted.

PERSISTENT AND DANGEROUS OFFENDERS

Missouri law increases penalties for repeat offenders:

• Persistent offenders (two or more prior felony convictions) can face the sentence range of the next higher felony class.
• Dangerous offenders (violent felonies or use of a deadly weapon) can also face enhanced sentencing.

Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction: A felony conviction doesn’t just mean prison time or fines — it can affect your life for years after your sentence ends:

• Loss of voting rights (until completion of sentence)
• Loss of the right to own or possess firearms
• Difficulty finding employment or housing
• Professional license restrictions

YOU NEED TO HIRE AN EXPERIENCED MISSOURI CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER

An experienced Missouri defense attorney can:

• Challenge evidence to get charges reduced or dismissed
• Negotiate a plea to a lower felony class or misdemeanor
• Seek alternative sentencing like probation or treatment programs
• Protect your rights throughout the process

Felony charges are life-changing — you should never face them alone.

CALL KC DEFENSE COUNSEL TODAY

At KC Defense Counsel, our affordable Kansas City criminal defense lawyers have defended clients across Kansas City against charges in every felony class. We know the law, we know the courts, and we fight to protect your freedom.

If you’ve been charged with a felony in Missouri, contact us today for a free case evaluation — before you take another step in your case.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.