What are the Possible Penalties for a Felony Conviction in TN?

You can be charged with many crimes in Tennessee, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. Felonies are the most serious crimes, and convictions for felony crimes can result in a wide range of penalties depending on the class of felony, the specific offense, and the circumstances of the case.

Tennessee has five classes of felonies, ranging from the most serious (Class A) to the least serious (Class E):

• Class A felony. The most severe type of felony, this includes offenses such as first-degree murder and aggravated rape.
• Class B felony. This includes serious crimes like aggravated burglary and drug trafficking of larger quantities.
• Class C felony. Covers crimes like aggravated assault and theft over $10,000.
• Class D felony. Includes theft between $2,500 and $10,000 and lesser drug offenses.
• Class E felony. The least severe felony class includes offenses like theft over $1,000 and simple drug possession (for repeat offenders).

Examples of felonies in Tennessee

• Murder
• Rape
• Incest
• Assault
• Kidnapping
• Arson
• Property Theft
• Trafficking
• Indecent Exposure
• Promoting Prostitution
• Identity Theft
• Forgery
• Tax Evasion

Penalties

Class A felonies have the strictest penalties. A person can face 15 to 60 years in prison and pay fines of up to $50,000. Class B felonies can result in eight to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. For a Class C felony, a person can face up to 15 years in prison. They may also be required to pay fines of up to $10,000. A Class D felony comes with penalties of fines up to $5,000 and up to 12 years. Class E felonies are the least serious penalties but are still serious. Class E felonies are punishable by up to six years in prison and fines of up to $3,000.

Felonies come with other penalties. Felony crimes that have not been expunged or sealed stay on your criminal record permanently. After completing all the sentence requirements, including legal and financial obligations and probation, a person may apply to have certain felony records expunged after five years.

Judges may require community service as part of the sentence for a felony conviction. Offenders may be required to pay restitution or compensate victims for financial losses. Felony convictions can lead to the loss of certain civil rights, including the right to vote, the right to possess firearms, and the right to hold certain professional licenses. They can also affect employment and housing opportunities.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Team Today

A felony charge can affect you for many years or even the rest of your life. It is important to fight these charges if possible.

If you have been arrested and are facing felony charges, turn to a knowledgeable Murfreesboro criminal defense attorney from the Law Office of David L. Scott. We will ensure your rights and freedom are protected during every stage of the criminal process. Call (615) 896-7656 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.