Felonies are serious crimes that are typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, heavy fines, or both. They include offenses such as murder, rape, armed robbery, and drug trafficking.

Types of Charges: Felony charges can vary widely, including violent crimes (e.g., assault, homicide), property crimes (e.g., burglary, arson), drug offenses (e.g., possession with intent to distribute), and white-collar crimes (e.g., fraud, embezzlement).

Penalties: Penalties for felonies can include lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, probation, community service, and mandatory rehabilitation programs. The severity of the penalty typically depends on the nature of the crime and any prior criminal history.

Defenses: Common defenses against felony charges include proving innocence, demonstrating lack of intent, establishing an alibi, or challenging the legality of evidence collection. In some cases, plea bargaining may also be a strategic defense.

Collateral Consequences: Felony convictions can lead to long-term collateral consequences, such as loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment, inability to obtain professional licenses, and restrictions on owning firearms. These consequences can significantly impact an individual’s life even after serving their sentence.