Your Guide to Filing Car Accident Claims in Philadelphia
December 14, 2023
Your Guide To Filing Car Accident Claims In Philadelphia
Car accidents can be stressful and overwhelming experiences, and it's crucial to know what to do after such incidents. Filing a car accident claim can be a tedious process, and with the legal system's complexities, many people often wonder what their options are or how long they have to file a lawsuit. Additionally, liability determinations can also be complex, making it necessary to understand the process to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. If you're a Philadelphia resident involved in a car accident, this post will cover everything you need to know about the statute of limitations, how to file a lawsuit, and how liability is determined so that you can stay informed and take the right steps.
What Are The Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Car Accident Claim?
In Philadelphia, the statute of limitations varies depending on the type of car accident you're involved in. Typically, it's two years from the date of the accident for both property damages and personal injuries. Suppose you miss the statute of limitations deadline, and no exceptions apply, you'll not be able to file a lawsuit or claim. To ensure you don't miss your deadline, it's best to contact a qualified attorney immediately after the accident. Your lawyer can help you file your claim on time and help you understand the legal system's complexities.
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Car Accident?
If negotiations with the at-fault party or insurance company fails, you'll need to file a lawsuit. In Philadelphia, the statute of limitations to file a lawsuit varies depending on the type of accident. For personal injuries, it's two years from the date of the occurrence, while for property damages, you have up to four years to file a lawsuit. After this period ends, you can no longer pursue a lawsuit. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you understand the legal process and what you need to do to increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
How Is Liability Determined In A Philadelphia Car Accident?
Liability in a car accident is determined by several factors. In Philadelphia, the modified comparative negligence rule applies, which means that both parties involved in the accident will be held responsible based on their contribution to the accident. Pennsylvania divides liability in a car accident based on percentage; if you're 50% or more at fault, you won't receive compensation for your injuries. It's essential to have a skilled car accident lawyer who can investigate the accident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help you build your case's strongest defense.
At Aegis Law, LLC, We Can Provide Legal Assistance To Victims Of Car Accidents In Philadelphia
At Aegis Law, LLC, we understand how stressful and complicated it is to deal with legal procedures after a car accident. That's why we offer our legal expertise to help you through every step of the process, from filing a car accident claim to representing you in court. We offer personalized attention and will work tirelessly to help you get the best possible outcome. With years of experience representing clients across the state in personal injury claims, we know what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.
Car accidents can be devastating, and knowing your legal options and deadlines are crucial to getting the compensation you need. With the right legal representation, you can achieve a favorable outcome. At Aegis Law, LLC, we're committed to helping our clients navigate the complicated legal process and get the compensation they deserve. If you're involved in a car accident in Philadelphia, don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery.
Being accused of a theft crime can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether you are facing charges for shoplifting, burglary, or embezzlement, the consequences of a conviction can have serious long-term effects on your life. That's why it's crucial to seek out the assistance of a skilled theft crimes attorney who can help protect your rights and provide you with the best possible defense. If you are a Pennsylvania resident facing theft charges, read on to learn more about why hiring an attorney is essential. The legal system can be complex and daunting, especially when it comes to theft crimes. A knowledgeable attorney will have a deep understanding of Pennsylvania's laws regarding theft offenses and will be able to navigate the legal process with ease. They will work tirelessly to investigate the details of your case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome in your case. In addition to providing legal expertise, a theft crimes attorney will also offer invaluable support and guidance throughout the entire legal process. They will explain your rights, options, and potential consequences in clear terms so that you can make informed decisions about how to proceed with your case. Your attorney will serve as your advocate in court, ensuring that your voice is heard and that you receive fair treatment under the law. One of the most significant benefits of hiring a theft crimes attorney is their ability to negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf. An experienced attorney will know how to leverage their knowledge of the law and their relationships within the legal community to secure favorable plea deals or even get charges dismissed altogether. By having an advocate who knows how to navigate the complexities of the legal system, you greatly increase your chances of achieving a positive outcome in your case. It's important to remember that being accused of a theft crime does not automatically make you guilty. Everyone deserves fair representation under the law, regardless of their circumstances. By retaining a skilled theft crimes attorney, you are taking proactive steps to defend yourself against these accusations and protect your rights. Don't wait until it's too late – reach out to an attorney as soon as possible if you are facing theft charges in Pennsylvania. When it comes to defending yourself against theft charges in Pennsylvania, having Aegis Law, LLC by your side is essential. From navigating complex legal proceedings to negotiating with prosecutors on your behalf, Aegis Law, LLC can provide you with the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Remember that everyone deserves fair representation under the law – don't hesitate to seek out professional help if you are facing theft allegations. By taking action now and enlisting the services of Aegis Law, LLC, you are giving yourself the best chance at achieving a favorable outcome in your case.
Navigating the path to U.S. citizenship can be complex and filled with bureaucratic intricacies. For Pennsylvania residents looking to become naturalized citizens, understanding the legal landscape and the processes involved is crucial. This is where the expertise of a naturalization attorney becomes invaluable. But what exactly does a naturalization attorney do, and how can they assist you on your journey to becoming a U.S. citizen? The Role of a Naturalization Attorney A naturalization attorney specializes in immigration law, with a particular focus on the process of becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States. They offer professional guidance to individuals going through the naturalization process, ensuring that all paperwork is in order, legal requirements are met, and any potential obstacles are addressed proactively. Assistance With Eligibility And Applications One of the primary roles of a naturalization attorney is to help determine whether you’re eligible for naturalization and to assist you with the preparation and submission of your Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. They will ensure that your application is thorough and free of errors that could lead to delays or denials. Representation At Interviews And Hearings Another critical service a naturalization attorney provides is representation during interviews and hearings. Given that the citizenship interview is a pivotal part of the naturalization process, having an attorney by your side can provide you with the confidence and preparation needed to succeed. Handling Complications If complications arise in your case, such as a previous denial of naturalization or issues related to your background, a naturalization attorney can represent your interests and advocate on your behalf. They can help appeal negative decisions and work to resolve complex legal issues that may be hindering your application. Guidance Through Testing Processes A naturalization attorney can also provide resources and study materials to help you pass the U.S. citizenship test and English language exam. They understand the kind of questions you might face and can give you insights into preparing effectively for these examinations. Why a Pennsylvania Naturalization Attorney Can Be Crucial The laws governing immigration and naturalization can vary state by state, and they are subject to change as policies evolve. For Pennsylvania residents, a local naturalization attorney can be particularly beneficial because they are well-versed in the specific legal context of the state and can provide personalized assistance based on your circumstances and location. Knowledge Of Local Resources And Community Many Pennsylvania naturalization attorneys are not only experts in the law but are also familiar with local community resources that can support your application process. They can connect you with language classes, civic engagement opportunities, and other community-based programs that might enhance your application. Accessibility And Support Having a local attorney means that you have easier access for meetings, document preparation, and general support throughout the naturalization process. This proximity can be comforting and convenient for applicants who value face-to-face interactions and readily available legal assistance. The road to U.S. citizenship is a meaningful and life-changing endeavor. While the desire to integrate fully into the fabric of American society is an admirable goal, the complexity of legal procedures shouldn't dissuade you from pursuing your dream. With the guidance of a knowledgeable naturalization attorney, Pennsylvania residents can successfully address the potential hurdles of the naturalization process and stand proudly as new citizens. Remember, choosing to work with a legal specialist might be the best investment you can make in your future as a U.S. citizen. If you're considering naturalization, reach out to a Pennsylvania naturalization attorney to discuss your situation and discover the tailored support available to you. For more information on the naturalization process or to find out how you can get started, contact [Name of legal firm or attorney], experienced in helping Pennsylvanians like you achieve their American dream.
Motorcycle accidents are scary and can leave you with serious injuries that may require medical attention. If you're involved in a motorcycle accident while traveling out of state, you might be wondering if you need to hire an attorney from the state where the accident occurred. In this blog post, we'll explore whether it's necessary to hire an attorney from another state or if there are benefits to hiring one from your home state. Do I need to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in that state? If you're involved in a motorcycle accident while traveling out of state, it's essential to hire an attorney as soon as possible. The laws surrounding motorcycle accidents can vary significantly from state-to-state, and it's important to have someone on your side who is well-versed in the laws of the state where the accident occurred. Hiring a local attorney ensures they have knowledge and experience dealing with local courts, judges, and other legal professionals. What are the benefits of hiring an attorney from the state you live in? Hiring an attorney from your home state has its benefits too. Your attorney will already be familiar with the laws of your home state and how they differ from other states. They may also have established relationships with medical professionals and insurance companies within your local area. This can help speed up your case's timeline and ensure that all parties involved are working towards getting you the compensation you deserve. What are the benefits of seeking outside-state help for a motorcycle accident? Seeking outside-state help for a motorcycle accident can also provide some advantages. Attorneys who specialize in motorcycle accidents often work nationwide and have extensive knowledge about different states' laws regarding these types of accidents. Therefore, they may be able to bring unique perspectives and new strategies that attorneys within your home state may not use. How can an attorney help me? An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you in many ways. They can help you gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Additionally, they can represent you in court if necessary, ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are protected. An attorney's ultimate goal is to get you the compensation you deserve for any injuries or damages caused by the accident. In conclusion, when involved in a motorcycle accident out of state, it's crucial to hire an attorney as soon as possible. While hiring an attorney from your home state may have its benefits, seeking outside-state help for a motorcycle accident can bring unique perspectives and new strategies that attorneys within your home state may not use. Ultimately, the most important thing is to hire a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer who will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for any damages caused by the accident.
Running a business in Pennsylvania can be a highly profitable venture, but it comes with its fair share of challenges as well. While no one wants to think about legal issues, it is an unfortunate reality that some businesses will end up in court at some point. Whether you are facing a lawsuit from an employee, customer, or competitor, you need to have an experienced business litigation attorney on your side. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of having a good business litigation attorney in Pennsylvania to ensure your business is protected. 1. Knowledge of Pennsylvania Law and Court Systems One of the main reasons why you need a business litigation attorney in Pennsylvania is because they have a deep understanding of the local laws and court systems. Laws vary by state, and an attorney who practices in Pennsylvania will have specialized knowledge of Pennsylvania law. They will be familiar with the court system and judges in your jurisdiction, which is essential for crafting a winning litigation strategy. Your attorney will be able to identify potential issues before they arise and help you navigate the complex legal landscape in the state with greater ease. 2. Protect Your Business against Lawsuits A business litigation attorney can help you protect your business against lawsuits by drafting and reviewing contracts, agreements, and other important documents. They can identify any potential legal liabilities in your business practices and help you take proactive steps to mitigate them. In addition, they can advise you on how to avoid common legal disputes, such as breach of contract claims or employment law violations. 3. Representation in Court If you are facing a lawsuit, you need an experienced attorney to represent you in court. Your attorney will have a deep understanding of the legal process, including filing pleadings, going through discovery, and presenting your case in court. They know how to navigate the legal system to ensure the best possible outcome for your business. With a skilled attorney on your side, you can be confident in your representation and the success of your case. 4. Negotiation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Going to court can be an expensive and time-consuming process. Fortunately, there are other options available for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration. Your attorney can help you explore these alternative dispute resolution options to avoid the expense and hassle of going to court. They can negotiate with the other party on your behalf to reach a settlement that benefits your business. Even if settlement isn’t possible, they can guide you through the entire litigation process and ensure your rights are protected. While no business owner wants to think about ending up in court, it’s essential to have a good business litigation attorney in Pennsylvania on your side. From protecting your business against lawsuits to representing you in court or exploring alternative dispute resolution options, a skilled attorney can guide you through the legal process with ease. Don’t wait until you’re faced with a legal issue to seek representation – start exploring your options now to ensure your business is protected!
Assault is a serious crime that can result in both criminal and civil charges. In Pennsylvania, it is important to distinguish between the two types of assault to understand the legal consequences and seek the appropriate legal representation. Criminal assault is a crime committed against a person, whereas civil assault is a harm caused by an intentional or reckless act. This blog post aims to provide clarity on the difference between criminal and civil assault in Pennsylvania and how they can affect you. Criminal Assault: Criminal Assault is generally considered to be the more severe of the two. In Pennsylvania, criminal assault is defined as any act that causes bodily injury to another person. Criminal assault can also occur if an individual threatens physical harm or attempts to cause injury. This type of assault is prosecuted by the government, and if found guilty, the offender could face a variety of penalties including mandatory jail time, fines, and probation. Civil Assault: On the other hand, civil assault is considered a tort. In Pennsylvania, civil assault is defined as an act that causes a person to fear imminent harm or offensive contact. Civil assault is usually a result of negligent or reckless behavior that results in harm to the victim. Civil assault is not always intentional and can result in damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering. In a civil assault case, the victim can sue the person or entity responsible for the injury. Outcome of Criminal Assault and Civil Assault: The main difference between the two types of assault is the intended outcome. In criminal assault, the government is seeking a conviction that will ultimately punish the offender for their crime. In civil assault, the victim is seeking compensation for the harm they have suffered as a result of the offender’s actions. It is important to note that a person can be charged with both criminal and civil assault, as the two are not mutually exclusive. How Can an Attorney Help You? If you have been the victim of assault in Pennsylvania, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. An attorney can also represent you in a criminal assault case and help you seek justice for the harm that has been caused. The difference between criminal assault and civil assault in Pennsylvania lies in the intent of the offender and the outcome sought by the victim. Criminal assault is a crime committed against a person and prosecuted by the government, whereas civil assault is a harm caused by an intentional or reckless act. If you have been the victim of assault in Pennsylvania, it is important to seek legal representation to navigate through the process. A skilled attorney can help you seek justice for the harm you have suffered and get the compensation you rightfully deserve.
The EB-5 visa, or immigrant investor program, is a popular pathway for foreigners who want to invest their money and establish a new life in the United States. Through this visa, investors can procure green cards for themselves and their immediate family members. However, the process of applying can be long and complicated, and the stakes are high since a significant investment is required. In this article, we'll guide you through the application process, from the eligibility requirements to the interview, and explain how an attorney can help. Who is eligible? To be eligible for an EB-5 visa, there are three primary requirements: the investment requirement, the job creation requirement, and the source-of-funds requirement. First, the investor must make a minimum investment of $900,000 for a targeted employment area (TEA), or $1.8 million for a non-TEA project. Second, the investment must create at least ten full-time jobs for American workers. Finally, investors must prove that their capital came from lawful sources. If an investor meets these three requirements, they can file Form I-526, the Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur. What documents are required? The following essential documents are required for an EB-5 visa application: - Proof of investment, including evidence of the source of funds - Evidence of job creation through the investment - Personal identification documents, including passports and birth certificates - Criminal and civil court records - Medical exam results What happens in the interview? The next step of the EB-5 visa process is the interview, where officials from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will verify the information provided in the application. During the interview, they will ask about the investor's background, investment source, and plans to create jobs. Additionally, they might ask about an investor's intentions to live in the United States. How can an attorney help me? An experienced immigration attorney can help investors navigate the complex EB-5 visa application process. They can review an investor's case, ensure the I-526 petition is completed correctly, assist with gathering necessary documents, and provide interview coaching. An attorney can also help investors choose the right project to invest in, determine if an investment is compliant with USCIS regulations, and appeal a denied EB-5 application. The EB-5 visa offers a great opportunity for foreign investors to immigrate to the United States. However, the application process is complicated and involves significant financial investment. Through this article, we hope we have provided a better understanding of the application process, including eligibility, required documents, and the interview process. An immigration attorney can be an asset to investors seeking to apply for an EB-5 visa, and at Aegis Law LLC, we are happy to provide legal assistance to those seeking an EB-5 Investor visa in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania, a thriving state, known for its dynamic workforce, world-class universities, and skilled professionals, has great potential for talent-based immigration. The Keystone state has always welcomed individuals who bring value to its economy and can make significant contributions to the state’s growth. However, understanding talent-based immigration, its policies, and how it works can be overwhelming. This blog post aims to provide Pennsylvania residents with a comprehensive guide on talent-based immigration, an opportunity for the state’s workforce. Talent-based immigration refers to the process of attracting high-skilled workers from other countries to the United States. It is aimed at filling skill shortages that exist in the US economy, contributing skills and knowledge that may not be readily available in the domestic workforce. There are three main talent-based immigration programs in the US, the H-1B visa, the O-1 visa, and the EB-1 visa, each of which has specific requirements. The H-1B visa is a work visa granted to highly skilled foreign workers with specialized knowledge in areas such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The visa enables foreigners to work in the US for up to three years, and it can be extended for a maximum of six years. To be eligible, workers must possess a degree in a relevant field from a reputable institution, as well as relevant work experience. The O-1 visa is granted to highly talented individuals who possess exceptional ability in their field of proficiency. It encompasses individuals in various fields, including arts, business, athletics, and education. To be eligible, individuals must provide evidence of their achievements, awards, and recognition. The EB-1 visa is also granted to individuals with exceptional abilities in their field of proficiency, including science, arts, athletics, education, and business. Individuals who hold an EB-1 visa can apply for permanent residency in the US and become green card holders. It is considered the most desirable of the three visa options. Individuals with outstanding achievements or international recognition are considered eligible for the EB-1 visa. Talent-based immigration is not only beneficial to foreign workers but also presents excellent opportunities for the US economy. Studies show that immigrants hold a higher proportion of STEM-related degrees than their native-born counterparts, which consequently allows them to take up job opportunities that would otherwise be unfilled with the existing pool of American workers. This ultimately creates employment and benefits the economy by increasing tax revenues. Aside from filling skill shortages, talent-based immigration brings about valuable cultural exchanges between individuals from diverse backgrounds, which contributes to the state’s diversity. Multiculturalism is essential in promoting inclusivity, which creates a strong sense of community and fosters a positive image of both Pennsylvania and the United States on a global scale. Talent-based immigration is an excellent opportunity for Pennsylvania’s workforce. As a state known for its skilled professionals, universities, and dynamic workforce, Pennsylvania is at an advantageous position to attract high-skilled workers from around the globe, thus filling skill gaps that exist in the economy. While talent-based immigration has its complexities and specific requirements, it presents many benefits to both foreign workers and the state. By welcoming skilled and talented workers to Pennsylvania, we are not only building our workforce but also promoting diversity and inclusivity. Lastly, it is important to remember that talent-based immigration complements existing infrastructure and does not replace the existing workforce, but offers more opportunities for growth and development.
Police are always on the lookout for signs of impairment, and if they see that a motorist appears to be driving erratically, they will more often than not pull them over. They may also have grounds to stop a driver if they believe that they are committing a traffic violation, but they must have reasonable cause to do so in all cases. If you've recently been stopped by the police, what were your rights at the time – and did you have to agree to their request, come what may? Remain Calm Let's face it, nobody likes to be pulled over by the police, and it can be quite a traumatic experience, especially if it is your first time. It's little wonder, then, that many people begin to panic and may say or do the wrong thing. However, it's very important to keep your wits about you and be aware of just what the law says. Start with Reasonable Cause To begin with, a police officer must have a reasonable cause (or suspicion) to believe that you have violated the law. They may say that you had been driving erratically and would like to check your sobriety. Or, they may say that you have a broken taillight and as this is a traffic violation, they have the right to stop the vehicle. If they cannot adequately point to "reasonable cause", then your solicitor could bring a motion to suppress the evidence in court, and this could result in an acquittal. Simple Stop In an ordinary traffic stop, an officer may issue a citation (for the broken taillight, for example), and you'll be on your way. However, they don't have an automatic right to search the vehicle or its contents, and you will be perfectly within your rights to refuse. Refuse to Allow a Search In this case, your Fourth Amendment rights are in question. You can politely refuse any request so long as the officer does not have any other suspicions. They will need to clearly articulate their concerns if they want to carry out a car search without your consent. This has been upheld many times in court, all the way up to the US Supreme Court. If the officer is persistent in their request to search your vehicle, you need to tell them politely but firmly that you refuse or ask them to provide their suspicions. In turn, they need to articulate their position clearly or must allow you to proceed. Initial Interaction If the officer suspects that you may be impaired behind the wheel, they will carefully observe your behavior and responses during initial questioning. If they believe they can smell alcohol or you appear to be fumbling, then they may want to progress to a field sobriety test. Remain Silent During the initial interaction, the officer may ask whether you have had anything to drink. Whether you answer or not is up to you as you are within your rights to remain silent. However, you should tell the officer that you wish to exercise this right, so there is no uncertainty. Just remember that in most states, you must identify yourself when behind the wheel, and an officer may arrest you if you refuse to do so. Field Tests and Your Rights Officers will typically conduct a field sobriety test or a preliminary alcohol screening test if they suspect that you have been driving under the influence. In most states, you give your implied consent to taking one of these tests when you first get your driver’s license and privileges. Legal opinion does vary here, however. Some lawyers believe that you are within your rights to refuse a roadside sobriety test and even the blood, breath or urine test back at the police station. However, there may be some hefty fines and other consequences if you are subsequently convicted of driving under the influence. You may even get a mandatory minimum jail sentence in this situation or be unable to obtain a hardship license in any case. Remember, the field sobriety tests are not admissible evidence in a court of law. The court will simply have the officer's report to go by, and it may be possible to dispute some of the facts if you hire a competent attorney. What Happens During an Arrest? If you are subsequently arrested on suspicion, this means that the officer has probable cause to arrest you for driving under the influence. They may take your driver’s license away from you and issue a temporary permit in its place. This permit will expire when you have had your day in court or the DMV has decided whether to suspend the license. If you are arrested, you will have to arrange bail in order to get out or wait until a judge can release you on your own recognizance. Remember the Details Try to remain composed and remember everything that takes place whenever an officer of the law stops you. Small details may matter, and you should write everything down as soon as you can so that you do not forget. Compare the Police Report Then, retain a competent attorney. Discuss all these details with them, and they will compare the information against the police report. This will describe the case against you, and an experienced attorney will know how to interpret its content. They'll be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the state's case and may be able to discuss these with the prosecutor. Remain Calm and Assert Your Rights Remember, you have rights whenever you are stopped by a police officer and can assert these rights at any time. Don't feel bullied or intimidated, and simply reply calmly and politely to any questions. Just bear in mind that traffic laws (and DUI laws) can vary from state to state, and the facts of each case are different. Therefore, if you have any concerns following an interaction with a law officer, speak with an attorney for advice.
When an individual is found guilty of a crime, the consequences depend on how it is classified according to state and federal laws. There are three general classifications for criminal offenses used in the United States – infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Here’s an overview of what each classification means, what type of penalties or sentencing to expect, and common examples. What is an infraction? Infractions are criminal offenses that are mild enough not to warrant jail time. In most cases, the punishment involves paying a fine. Also known as petty offenses, this type of crime doesn’t require court attendance and there’s no trial to determine guilt or innocence. Nor would a defendant need to hire a lawyer to resolve the penalty charges. Examples of infractions Infractions are generally crimes that disrupt society or violate local laws. Here are some of the most common: Speeding while driving Running a stop sign Littering Violation of building codes What is a misdemeanor? Misdemeanors are more serious than infractions, but they aren’t considered as severe as felony crimes. A defendant who’s convicted of a misdemeanor can be sentenced to up to one year in county jail. These criminal offenses can also come with other types of penalties such as a fine, community service, probation, or restitution, but the maximum punishment will never exceed one year in jail. Examples of misdemeanors Misdemeanors are sometimes similar to felonies, but they involve a lesser offense. For example, where aggravated assault (assault that leads to serious injuries or involves weapons) is usually a felony, simple assault (assault involving threatening words or actions or minor injuries) is classed as a misdemeanor in most states. Here are some examples of misdemeanor offenses: Public intoxication Vandalism Shoplifting Petty theft Indecent exposure Trespassing What is a felony? Federal law defines a felony as an offense that can carry a punishment of over 12 months in prison without parole. This can range from one year to a life sentence. In extremely severe cases in states that allow capital punishment, a judge may issue a death sentence. Felonies are serious crimes that can have long-term consequences, not just for the person committing the act, but also for any victims. Accomplices to a felony crime can also be handed a severe sentence. Because of the nature of this type of criminal offense, there are also repercussions in addition to the actual sentence that needs to be served. For example, felony offenders can lose some of their civil rights, such as the right to own firearms. A felony charge is also likely to stay on the offender’s record for the rest of their life. Examples of felony crimes Most violent crimes and offenses that put others in harm’s way are classed as felonies. Murder Rape Arson Kidnapping Manslaughter Felony assault Illegal drug manufacturing Drug distribution Grand theft Armed robbery Elder abuse Animal cruelty Subcategories for misdemeanors and felonies The federal criminal code and most states define different classes or levels of misdemeanors and felonies. For misdemeanors, the offense is either a class A, B, C, D, or E misdemeanor crime. These categories can also be called level 1, level 2, and level 3, and so on. Some states use unique terms to grade the severity of the misdemeanor, such as gross, petty, or high misdemeanor. States break down felony crimes in a similar way. Also, a capital felony is one that warrants a life sentence or the death penalty. Not all states follow these classifications. In fact, a couple of states – Maine and New Jersey – don’t classify criminal offenses at all. Others use the three primary classifications for criminal offenses – infraction, misdemeanor, and felony – but they then assign specific punishments based on the crime instead of using subcategories. For example, one state legislature's statute might determine that someone who shoplifts and is found guilty of the misdemeanor would face up to 180 days in jail and a $2500 fine, where a vandalism conviction could come with up to a 90-day sentence and a $1000 fine. In a state that uses subcategories, both of these misdemeanors could fall under the same class or grade, and so the maximum penalties would be the same. What are felony-misdemeanors? Some states use a fourth classification known as felony-misdemeanors. These are crimes that can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, which means they can be punishable by up to one year, or by 12 months or more. They are also referred to as “wobblers.” With this type of criminal offense, either the judge or the prosecutor will decide which direction to go in. Wobbler crimes are considered misdemeanors that are on the cusp of being classed as a felony or vice versa. Arson, domestic violence, driving under the influence, and assault are all examples of wobblers. The exact rules over how to prosecute a wobbler crime depend on state laws, but in general, having this classification gives prosecutors and judges more flexibility over how to determine a suitable punishment. They may look at factors such as the circumstances of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history to decide a reasonable penalty. Because the case could go either way, it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. If you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony, are you definitely going to jail? No, being convicted of either one of these types of criminal offenses doesn’t guarantee time spent behind bars. A misdemeanor can lead to up to a year of jail time, but it can also be resolved with a fine and community service, or another less severe penalty. The same goes for felony charges. A judge may sentence a felony offender to probation, which can involve reporting to a probation officer, required community service, and obeying all laws. For drug charges, the individual may also undergo drug testing and treatment. While probation is an alternative to jail time, an offender who doesn’t adhere to all the requirements can be sent to jail. Don’t face a criminal charge alone If you could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense, get the help you need. The experienced criminal law team at Aegis Law will work to protect your rights and ensure you get the best outcome possible given the circumstances of your case. Reach out today. Call (267)-587-7123 or contact us online.