Classifications and Sentencing
How infractions, misdemeanors, felonies and federal charges differ, and how sentences are set.
Infraction
A minor offence. The penalty is a fine. An infraction can be handled with a citation and does not need an arrest.
Misdemeanor
A more serious offence. The penalty is a fine and short jail time. An officer may arrest or cite, depending on the facts.
Felony
A serious offence. The penalty is a large fine and long jail time. Felonies lead to an arrest and may affect firearm rights.
Federal
Offences prosecuted at the state or federal level. These need authorized agencies or the district attorney to file.
Choosing a sentence
- Start at the midpoint of the range.
- Move up for aggravating facts, such as a weapon, a minor victim, a prior record or harm to an officer.
- Move down for mitigating facts, such as cooperation, a first offence or a minor role.
- Do not go outside the range without a judge's order.
Multiple charges
The calculator adds every selected charge together. Judges may run sentences at the same time (concurrent) or one after another (consecutive). Concurrent is the default for charges that come from one act.