If you have been charged with a felony, the first thing to understand is that this is very serious. You will face harsh penalties inside the courtroom and long term consequences that extend into many facets of your daily life.
Legal Penalties
Felony penalties vary based on the grade.
| Grading | Fines | Prison Time |
| First Degree | up to $25,000 | 10 to 20 years |
| Second Degree | up to $25,000 | 5 to 10 years |
| Third Degree/Ungraded | up to $15,000 | 3.5 to 7 years |
Long Term Consequences
Being a convicted felon can affect you in many ways. You would:
- Lose the right to become an elected official
- Lose voting rights during incarceration
- Be disqualified from jury service
- Lose the ability to have a firearm
- Lose eligibility for student loans
- Be ineligible to become a foster parent or adopt for ten years
- Possibly lose professional licensure or certification for ten years
- Possibly be ineligible for certain employment positions
Other Considerations
- A felony can affect your insurance premiums
- By law employers cannot discriminate against hiring a felon if the crime is not related to the job. Practically, however, they can make any excuse not to hire you.
- A felony will stay on your record forever. Anyone doing a background check will be able to see it. There are so many background checking apps out there. Imagine how that can affect you. Whether it is renting an apartment or dating, the other party can easily see your conviction. Who wants to deal with a felon?
The best thing you can do is get an experienced and professional attorney to handle your case. Every case is unique and there may be avenues to help you avoid getting a felony conviction. At The McShane Firm, our focus is on protecting you. Call us today at 1-866-McSHANE.
Recommended additional reading:
Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:
- Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
- Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
- Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.
This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
