Punishment for Criminal Offenses
Felonies and Misdemeanors
Criminal offenses are considered either felonies or misdemeanors. Offenses are classified in the following manner:
| Felony | Misdemeanor |
|---|---|
| Class 1 felony | Class 1 misdemeanor |
| Class 2 felony | Class 2 misdemeanor |
| Class 3 felony | Class 3 misdemeanor |
| Class 4 felony | Class 4 misdemeanor |
| Class 5 felony | |
| Class 6 felony |
COV 18.2-10. Felonies
The authorized punishments for conviction of a felony are:
- For Class 1 felonies, death, or imprisonment for life and a fine of up to $100,000.
- For Class 2 felonies, imprisonment for life or a minimum of 20 years and a fine of up to $100,000.
- For Class 3 felonies, imprisonment for five to 20 years and a fine of up to $100,000.
- For Class 4 felonies, imprisonment for two to 10 years and a fine of up to $100,000.
- For Class 5 felonies, the jury or court may choose imprisonment for one to 10 years or jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
- For Class 6 felonies, the jury or court may choose imprisonment for one to five years or jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
COV 18.2-11. Misdemeanors
The authorized punishments for conviction of a misdemeanor are:
- For Class 1 misdemeanors, confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
- For Class 2 misdemeanors, confinement in jail for up to six months and a fine of up to $1,000, either or both.
- For Class 3 misdemeanors, maximum fine of $500.
- For Class 4 misdemeanors, maximum fine of $250.