Understanding Felonies in Missouri

In the United States, criminal offenses are classified into various categories, with felonies being the most serious. Felonies typically entail severe penalties, including imprisonment for more than one year, significant fines, and lasting consequences on an individual’s personal and professional life. In this article, we will delve into what constitutes a felony in Missouri and explore any notable distinctions from other states, referencing relevant Missouri statutes where appropriate.

Defining Felonies in Missouri:

In Missouri, a felony is a crime that is punishable by imprisonment for more than one year in a state correctional facility or under the custody of the Department of Corrections. Felonies encompass a wide range of offenses, such as murder, rape, robbery, burglary, drug trafficking, and white-collar crimes like embezzlement or fraud.

Missouri Felony Classes:

Missouri classifies felonies into different classes, with Class A being the most severe and Class E being the least severe. The classification system is determined by the seriousness of the offense and the potential penalties involved. For instance, a Class A felony carries a potential punishment of life imprisonment without parole or death, while a Class E felony can result in up to four years of imprisonment.

Comparison with Other States:

While felony classifications generally share similar principles across the United States, there can be variations in specific offenses and their corresponding penalties. Comparing Missouri’s felony system with other states, we find some differences in terminology and sentencing:

1. Classifications: Some states use different terms to categorize offenses. For example, some states use the terms “capital felonies” or “violent felonies” to refer to the most serious offenses.
2. Sentencing Guidelines: The sentencing guidelines for felonies may differ among states. For instance, the same offense in Missouri might carry a different penalty in a neighboring state due to variations in statutory minimums and maximums.
3. Three-Strike Laws: Some states have implemented “three-strike” laws, where individuals convicted of three felonies receive mandatory life sentences. While Missouri does not have a formal three-strike law, repeat offenders can face enhanced penalties under the state’s persistent offender statute.

Missouri Statutes:

To gain a comprehensive understanding of Missouri’s felony laws, it is essential to refer to the relevant statutes. The Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo) contains specific sections that outline the definitions, classifications, and penalties for felonies, such as RSMo Section 556.036 and RSMo Section 558.011.

Felonies in Missouri are serious crimes that carry substantial penalties, including lengthy imprisonment. Missouri’s felony classification system places offenses into different classes based on severity, ranging from Class A to Class E. While felony laws tend to have similarities across states, there can be variations in specific offenses and sentencing guidelines. Understanding the distinctions between Missouri’s felony laws and those of other states is crucial for individuals, legal professionals, and anyone seeking knowledge about the criminal justice system. By referring to the relevant Missouri statutes, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the state’s felony laws and their implications.

The use of this Website does not create an attorney-client relationship.