If you face criminal charges, it’s important to remember that each state has differences in how it defines and handles criminal offenses. If you face criminal charges in Indiana, knowing how your offense is classified matters. Indiana law divides crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, each with distinct levels of severity and legal consequences. This blog walks you through what each classification means and the penalties you could face.
Start by learning how Indiana defines misdemeanor offenses and the penalties that go with them.
What are misdemeanor crimes in Indiana?
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses but still carry jail time, fines and a lasting impact on your record. These offenses can affect your daily life, including employment and housing opportunities. The state divides misdemeanors into three classes:
- Class A misdemeanors: Includes offenses like battery causing injury, theft under $750 and small-scale cannabis possession
- Class B misdemeanors: Covers first-time drug possession and public intoxication
- Class C misdemeanors: Involves disorderly conduct and minor traffic violations
The penalties you face depend on the class of misdemeanor charged.
Potential penalties for Indiana misdemeanors
Penalties for misdemeanors vary depending on the class of the offense. The following outlines the possible jail time and defines the associated penalties with each class:
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in county jail and fines up to $5,000
- Class B misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000
- Class C misdemeanor: Up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500
More serious charges fall under felony classifications, which carry greater penalties.
What are felony crimes in Indiana?
Felonies carry more serious consequences and are grouped into six levels, with Level 1 being the most severe. These offenses often involve violence, significant harm or large-scale criminal activity.
- Level 1 Felony: Involves attempted murder, child molestation and neglect causing death
- Level 2 Felony: Involves voluntary manslaughter and large drug offenses
- Level 3 Felony: Involves aggravated battery and robbery
- Level 4 Felony: Involves arson and burglary of a dwelling
- Level 5 Felony: Involves battery with a deadly weapon and burglary of non-dwelling structures
- Level 6 Felony: Involves theft and possession of controlled substances
Some Level 6 felonies may be reduced to misdemeanors depending on factors like your criminal history or the details of the case. This can result in less severe penalties.
The following outlines the potential prison sentences and fines linked to each felony level.
Potential penalties for Indiana felonies
If you’re charged with a felony in Indiana, the penalties can be severe and long-lasting. The punishment you face depends on the felony level and the specific details of your case.
- Level 1 Felony: 20 to 40 years in prison with fines up to $10,000
- Level 2 Felony: 10 to 30 years in prison with fines up to $10,000
- Level 3 Felony: Three to 16 years in prison with fines up to $10,000
- Level 4 Felony: Two to 12 years in prison with fines up to $10,000
- Level 5 Felony: One to six years in prison with fines up to $10,000
- Level 6 Felony: Six months to two-and-a-half years in prison with fines up to $10,000
Felony convictions can have consequences beyond prison and fines, including restrictions on employment, housing and civil rights. It’s important to take any felony charge seriously and seek legal guidance early.
Protecting your rights in Indiana criminal cases
Facing misdemeanor or felony charges in Indiana can affect your freedom, finances and future opportunities. Knowing the classification and potential penalties tied to your charge is an important first step. Consulting with a criminal defense attorney early can provide guidance personalized to your situation and help you respond to the charges effectively.