What Happens if You Get Convicted of a Felony?

 Posted on January 20, 2025 in Criminal Defense

A felony conviction is one of the most serious outcomes you can face in the criminal justice system. In Tennessee, felonies carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences and hefty fines. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, a felony conviction can also affect nearly every aspect of your life, from your job to your reputation.

If you are being prosecuted for a felony charge, you need to understand the consequences you face and build a strong defense. An experienced Tennessee criminal defense attorney can fight to protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.

Penalties for a Felony Conviction in Tennessee

Tennessee classifies felonies into five categories: Class A, B, C, D, and E. The penalties vary depending on the classification of the felony, with Class A being the most severe and Class E being the least. Here is a breakdown:

• Class A Felony: Punishable by 15 to 60 years in prison and fines of up to $50,000. Examples include first-degree murder and aggravated rape.

• Class B Felony: Punishable by eight to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000. Crimes such as drug trafficking and aggravated burglary fall under this category.

• Class C Felony: Punishable by three to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Examples include certain types of fraud or theft of property worth more than $10,000.

• Class D Felony: Punishable by up to 12 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Examples include vehicular homicide and theft of property worth more than $2,500 but less than $10,000.

• Class E Felony: Punishable by one to six years in prison and fines of up to $3,000. Examples include certain drug possession offenses or theft of property worth more than $1,000 but less than $2,500.

The exact penalties will depend on the specific charge, your criminal history, and the circumstances of the case. In some instances, alternative sentencing options, such as probation, may be available.

The Long-Term Impact of a Felony Conviction

The consequences of a felony conviction go way beyond the courtroom. Even after you have served your sentence, a felony record can follow you for the rest of your life, impacting your:

Employment

Many employers conduct background checks and may be reluctant to hire someone with a felony record, especially for positions that involve trust or responsibility.

Housing

Landlords may deny housing applications based on a criminal record, making it harder to find a place to live.

Voting Rights

In Tennessee, a felony conviction results in the loss of voting rights. While it is possible to restore these rights, the process can be complicated.

Gun Ownership

A felony conviction will likely prohibit you from owning or possessing firearms under both state and federal law.

Reputation and Relationships

A felony conviction can damage personal relationships and your standing in the community, making it difficult to rebuild trust.

Contact Our Blount County, TN Criminal Defense Lawyers

A felony charge is a serious matter that requires help from a skilled and aggressive attorney right away. If you or someone you love is facing felony charges, a Maryville, TN criminal defense attorney at The Baker Law Firm can help you get through the legal process and fight for your rights.

Call 865-200-4117 today to schedule a free consultation. Protect your freedom, your future, and your reputation with the help of an experienced defense attorney.