Sentences for Felonies and Misdemeanors

If you are charged with a crime, it is important to know the level of the offense and the possible sentence. Criminal convictions can carry harsh penalties, including jail or prison time. If you are charged with a crime in Indiana, the decision on whether to enter a plea agreement or to go to trial will be largely influenced by the possible sentence. In any criminal case, it is important to develop a strategy to minimize or eliminate the possible length of jail or prison time. In negotiating plea agreements, one of the most important criteria for a defendant is reducing exposure to executed time in jail or prison. The offense level will also determine when a person is eligible for expungement.

Indiana Felony Levels/Sentences:

Level 1 Felony: Range: 20 to 40 years with an advisory sentence of 30 years

Level 2 Felony: Range: 10 to 30 years with an advisory sentence of 17 1/2 years

Level 3 Felony: Range: 3 to 16 years with an advisory sentence of 9 years

Level 4 Felony: Range: 2 to 12 years with an advisory sentence of 6 years

Level 5 Felony: Range: 1 to 6 years with an advisory sentence of 3 years

Level 6 Felony: Range: 6 months to 2 1/2 years with an advisory sentence of 1 year

Sentences for Misdemeanors in Indiana:

Class A misdemeanor: 0 to 365 days in jail

Class B misdemeanor: 0 to 180 days in jail

Class C misdemeanor: 0 to 60 days in jail

Many Level 6 Felony Convictions are Eligible for Misdemeanor Treatment

A Level 6 felony in Indiana can be reduced to a Class A misdemeanor in three ways: 1) at a sentencing hearing by a judge; 2) pursuant to a Plea Agreement; or 3) three years after a person completes his or her sentence by filing a petition with the court. Eligible offenses include theft, operating while intoxicated with a prior, drug possession, and maintaining a common nuisance. An experienced criminal attorney can review your case and determine the best strategy for keeping a felony off your record.

Legal Strategy: Avoiding Jail Time on Felony Charges in Indiana

If you are charged with a felony in Indiana, you need a criminal attorney who can develop a strategy that seeks to avoid jail time. Can you win at trial? Is your case eligible for misdemeanor treatment? Could any sentence be served on probation or house arrest? Gibson Law Office attorneys have represented clients in more than 80 Indiana counties. We have offices in Lafayette, Bloomington, Fort Wayne, and Anderson and always offer a free initial consultation. If you are charged with a felony offense, contact us today for a free consultation. Having an experienced attorney early in the case can often make a big difference in the outcome.

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You need to act fast to protect your rights. Certain defenses and motions must be filed prior to deadlines set by the court. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys will develop a strategy to attack the evidence in your case. Schedule a free consultation now.