WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FELONY VS. MISDEMEANOR IN MISSOURI?

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FELONY VS. MISDEMEANOR

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Kansas City or anywhere in Missouri, one of the first questions you’ll hear is whether it’s a felony or misdemeanor charge. But what’s the difference and why does it matter?

At KC Defense Counsel, our skilled Kansas City criminal defense lawyers near you help clients understand the criminal justice system, their charges, and their options for defense.

UNDERSTANDING CRIMINAL CLASSIFICATIONS IN MISSOURI

Missouri divides crimes into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The primary differences come down to the severity of the offense and the potential penalties if convicted.

  • Misdemeanors are considered less serious and carry lighter penalties.
  • Felonies are more severe crimes with much harsher consequences.

Both types can result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record—but the long-term impact of a felony is far more serious.

HOW ARE MISDEMEANORS CLASSIFIED IN MISSOURI?

Misdemeanors in Missouri are divided into four classes:

Class A: Up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine up to $2,000

Class B: Up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000

  • (Examples: First-time DWI, trespassing)

Class C: Up to 15 days in jail and/or a fine up to $750

Class D: Fine only, up to $500

  • (Examples: Many municipal or ordinance violations)

Misdemeanors can still disrupt your life, resulting in a permanent record, job loss, or driver’s license suspension but they are often eligible for expungement after a waiting period.

HOW ARE FELONIES CLASSIFIED IN MISSOURI?

Felonies are categorized into five classes, with Class A being the most serious:

Class A Felony: 10 to 30 years or life in prison

  • (Examples: Murder, kidnapping, large-scale drug trafficking)

Class B Felony: 5 to 15 years in prison

  • (Examples: Robbery, voluntary manslaughter)

Class C Felony: 3 to 10 years in prison

  • (Examples: Felony DWI, 2nd-degree assault)

Class D Felony: Up to 7 years in prison

  • (Examples: Forgery, some property crimes)

Class E Felony: Up to 4 years in prison

  • (Examples: Resisting arrest, certain drug charges)

Unlike misdemeanors, felony convictions often come with permanent consequences: loss of voting rights, difficulty finding housing or employment, and restrictions on firearm ownership.

That’s where an experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorney comes in.

HOW CAN KC DEFENSE COUNSEL HELP?

Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, our team at KC Defense Counsel builds strong, strategic defenses. We negotiate for reduced charges, argue for diversion programs, and, when necessary, take your case to trial. We’ve helped countless clients avoid jail time, protect their records, and move forward with their lives.

Don’t underestimate the impact of any criminal charge. Even a misdemeanor can lead to a permanent mark on your background check. And a felony? That can change your future.

CONTACT A MISSOURI CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER TODAY

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Missouri, no matter how big or small, you need answers fast. Contact KC Defense Counsel today to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation with one of our affordable Kansas City defense lawyers near me.

Our team will walk you through your options and begin building your defense right away.

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