Understanding First Degree Felonies in Kittanning, Pennsylvania

What is a First Degree Felony?

First Degree Felony, referred to as F1, is the most serious type of crime one can be charged with in Kittanning, Pennsylvania. If you are arrested and accused of a first-degree felony, it is essential to get help from a skilled and committed Kittanning criminal attorney immediately.

Classification of Crimes

In the United States, crimes fall into two main categories:

• Felonies
• Misdemeanors

Felonies, being more severe, are further sorted into three degrees. Among these, first-degree felonies carry the highest severity, while third-degree felonies are less serious.

Consequences of a First Degree Felony Conviction

Being convicted of a first-degree felony can lead to:

• Imprisonment for up to twenty years
• Additional challenges, such as caring for your family and children

Consulting a Kittanning DUI attorney is crucial when facing such charges.

Long-Term Impacts

Even after serving a sentence, the effects linger:

• Employment challenges due to potential employers’ reluctance to hire individuals with a felony record
• Restrictions on owning firearms or joining the military

What Does “First-Degree Felony” Mean?

First-degree felonies come with the toughest penalties, including:

• Up to 20 years in prison
• Fines up to $25,000

Examples of First-Degree Felonies:

• Rape
• Voluntary manslaughter
• Kidnapping
• Aggravated assault on a prison employee, police officer, or court officer

Sentencing and Grading

Grading a Sentence

Punishments for first-degree felonies depend on several factors. In Pennsylvania:

• Every crime receives an Offense Gravity Score (OGS), a numeric indicator of crime severity
• The Prior Record Score (PRS) reflects your criminal history

Judges consider both your OGS and PRS when determining your sentence. If your OGS is low and you have minimal prior convictions, your sentence may be shorter. However, Pennsylvania judges can deviate based on mitigating or aggravating factors.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

Certain offenses require mandatory minimum prison terms, regardless of mitigating circumstances. Even without previous criminal history, the judge must impose the minimum sentence.

How a Criminal Lawyer in Kittanning Can Assist

At the Logue Law Group, our adept Kittanning criminal lawyers offer a deep understanding of the charges you face. They diligently search for mitigating elements that could benefit your case and craft robust defense strategies. Facing these charges alone is not advisable.

If you’re contending with a felony charge, reach out to our experienced Kittanning DUI attorneys at  Logue Law Group. Contact us at 844.PITT.DUI or connect online. Act swiftly, as hiring a Kittanning criminal lawyer promptly can significantly aid your case.

Additional Resources

For more details on Pennsylvania offense classes and gravity scores, consult Title 204, Chapter 303 of the Pennsylvania Criminal Code.