Understanding the consequences and categorization of a felony conviction in Iowa is essential if you’re accused of committing a crime in this category. Here’s more information about the different classes of felonies and their associated penalties.
The four classes of felony crimes
Getting accused of a felony crime is serious business. Being found guilty of a forcible felony typically requires you to serve time in prison as there are no suspensions for these types of crimes. The four felony classes are broken down into the following categories:
– Class A: Class A felony convictions are the most serious and may result in having to serve life in prison. An example of a Class A felony would be a sexual assault crime causing serious injury to the victim.
– Class B: If you are convicted of a Class B felony, you may have to serve up to 25 years in prison. An example of a Class B felony would be first-degree burglary.
– Class C: Committing a felony in this category is usually punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $1,000-$10,000. Stealing property with a value higher than $10,000 could constitute a Class C felony conviction.
– Class D: Felonies in this category are the least severe type and are generally punishable by serving five years in prison. Fines for a Class D felony can run between $750 and $7,500.
Other important considerations
If you’re convicted of a felony in the state, you must submit your DNA and have it entered into a database. Other consequences for being convicted of felony charges include not being able to carry a firearm or vote.
Being convicted of a felony typically leads to jail time and fines that will escalate depending on the severity of the crime. Mounting a defense is important if you want to avoid a conviction and the resulting penalties.
