Missouri divides felonies into five classes: A, B, C, D, and E. Class A felonies, like murder and kidnapping, are the most serious crimes. Class E felonies are lower-level offenses, such as property crimes. The class of a felony affects the punishment range and how St. Louis courts treat each case.
Prison Sentences by Felony Class
Missouri law sets clear sentencing ranges for each felony class. These ranges give judges structure while allowing room to adjust the sentence based on the case. Here’s a breakdown of prison terms by class:
- Class A Felonies: Ten to 30 years, or life in prison
- Class B Felonies: Five to 15 years
- Class C Felonies: Three to ten years
- Class D Felonies: Up to seven years
- Class E Felonies: Up to four years
For Class D and E felonies, judges may opt for sentences of up to one year in county jail instead of prison.
Felony Fines and Financial Penalties
Missouri courts can impose fines alongside prison time for felonies. The exact amount depends on the felony class and whether the crime involved financial gain:
- Class C, D, or E Felonies: Up to $10,000
- If the Person Gained Money or Property from the Offense: Up to double the amount gained
- Corporate Felony Convictions: Up to $20,000
Courts can reduce fines based on money or property recovered before sentencing. There is no standard fine for Class A or B felonies that do not involve financial gain. In cases involving crimes like murder, courts typically impose prison sentences without any fine unless a separate statute authorizes one.
Offenses Defined Outside the Criminal Code
Some Missouri laws do not specify a class for certain felonies. When that happens, Missouri assigns a class based on the possible sentence. For instance, if the law says a crime is punishable by life in prison or 20 years or more, it’s a Class A felony. Those punishable by more than ten years but less than 20 are considered Class B felonies, and so on.
Repeat Offenders and Sentence Enhancements
Missouri law imposes more severe punishments on people with past felony convictions. If someone has a prior felony on their record, the court will treat them as a “prior offender.” Two or more prior felonies or one past violent felony makes someone a “persistent offender.” Courts sentence prior and persistent offenders as though they had committed more serious felonies. For example, a prior offender convicted of a Class C felony might get the sentence for a Class B felony.
Minimum Prison Terms for Repeat or Violent Felonies
People with prior prison sentences must typically serve more of their time before becoming eligible for parole. One prior prison stay means they must serve at least 40 percent of their sentence. Two prior instances of incarceration increase that to 50 percent. Those with three or more prior prison stays must serve 80 percent. If someone is convicted of a violent felony, they must serve 85 percent of the sentence.
Restorative Justice and Alternative Sentencing
In some felony cases, Missouri courts allow alternatives to imprisonment. These alternatives can include community service, treatment programs, or restitution to victims. These options may apply if a sentence is suspended or if the law gives the court discretion in sentencing.
A seasoned criminal defense lawyer can help defendants make strong cases for these outcomes. They can challenge weak evidence and push for sentencing that fits the situation. Legal representation can make all the difference when it comes to avoiding the harshest penalties in criminal cases.
Discuss Your Case with a St. Louis Criminal Defense Attorney
If you’re facing a felony charge in Missouri, you need clear answers and a strong legal strategy. That’s where the lawyers at Travis Noble, P.C., come in. We know how to challenge the state’s case and fight for fair results at every stage of the process. Contact our law firm today to arrange your free initial consultation and get the legal support you need to move forward.