What is a Misdemeanor?

Understanding the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is essential for those facing criminal charges. They carry different penalties and consist of different types of crimes. Misdemeanors are less serious than felony offenses, carrying less severe penalties, but all criminal charges should be taken seriously as they have the potential to affect the rest of a person’s life.

Understanding Misdemeanors in Alabama

Understanding Misdemeanors in Alabama

In Alabama, misdemeanors are categorized into three distinct classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Each classification indicates the severity of the crime and the corresponding potential penalties. 

Class A Misdemeanors

Class A misdemeanors represent the highest severity within misdemeanor classifications, with potential penalties that include incarceration for up to one year and fines reaching $6,000. 

Offenses falling within this category commonly include inhumane treatment of animals like dogs or cats, domestic violence in the third degree, and the unlawful appropriation of property or services.

Class B Misdemeanors

These misdemeanors are considered moderately serious, carrying penalties that can include imprisonment for up to six months and fines of up to $3,000. Typical Class B misdemeanors include menacing behavior, resisting arrest, and stalking in the second degree.

Class C Misdemeanors

Class C misdemeanors are considered the least serious offenses among the misdemeanor classifications, with potential penalties of up to three months of jail time and fines that may not exceed $500. Examples include trespassing, harassment, acts of public lewdness, and disorderly conduct.

Understanding Felonies in Alabama

Alabama distinguishes felony crimes into four primary classes: Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class D. Each class reflects the gravity of the offense and the accompanying legal consequences.

Class A Felonies

Class A felonies are the most serious offenses under Alabama law, and punishments may include prison terms of 10 years to 99 years or even a life sentence and a fine of up to $60,000. 

Crimes in this category include first-degree rape, often involving force or victims younger than 12 years old, as well as first-degree kidnapping, which entails abduction for purposes of ransom or sexual exploitation.

Class B Felonies

Crimes classified as Class B felonies are less severe than Class A offenses but still carry substantial penalties, ranging from 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000.

Offenses in this class typically include first-degree assault, first-degree manslaughter, and second-degree statutory rape, which involves sexual activity with minors aged 12 to 15 (even if they “consent”) when the defendant is at least 16 and two years older than the victim.

Class C Felonies

Class C felonies are less serious relative to Classes A and B, with potential incarceration periods of 366 days to 10 years and a fine of up to $15,000. Common examples include third-degree robbery, where the use or threat of force is involved, interference with custody, and first-degree stalking.

Class D Felonies

As the least severe category of felonies, Class D felonies have sentences ranging from 366 days up to 5 years in prison. Offenses under this classification typically include crimes such as pickpocketing, unauthorized use of credit cards, theft involving goods valued between $500 and $1,500, and the possession of illegal substances.

If you’ve been arrested or detained – no matter what type of crime you’re facing – working with a criminal defense attorney is absolutely essential. 

When facing misdemeanor charges, understanding potential legal defenses is crucial, as these can significantly impact the outcome of a case. Below are some common defenses used in misdemeanor cases:

Lack of Intent

In many misdemeanor cases, the prosecution must prove intent. If a defendant can demonstrate that there was no intention to commit the alleged crime, this can serve as a powerful defense. Without intent, the actions in question may not meet the legal criteria for a crime.

Self-Defense

Self-defense can be used when the defendant believes that they had to engage in violence because they were facing imminent harm. To be successful with this defense, the defendant must prove that the force they used was proportional to the threat they were facing.

Mistaken Identity

Mistaken identity is another common defense. This argument is that the defendant is not actually the one who committed the crime and was instead falsely identified. This can occur for a number of reasons, such as a simple mistake or incorrect police lineup procedures.

Duress or Coercion

If a person commits a misdemeanor under duress or coercion, meaning they were forced to behave in a certain way under threat of harm, this can serve as a legal defense. Proving that the defendant had no reasonable alternative but to commit the crime is critical for this defense to succeed.

To determine the best legal defense and figure out what steps to take next, schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer at (205) 930-9800. The experienced legal team at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. is committed to providing you with dedicated support and expert guidance in your case