What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony in Tennessee?
Highlights
Misdemeanors in Tennessee carry lighter penalties up to 11 months and 29 days in jail, while felonies involve state prison sentences ranging from one year to life or capital punishment.
Tennessee categorizes misdemeanors into three classes (A, B, and C) and ordinary felonies into five classes (A through E), with capital offenses governed by separate provisions.
Felony convictions can affect voting eligibility, firearm possession, and employment opportunities, although the consequences and available restoration procedures depend on the offense and applicable law.
Seeking legal counsel early in your case helps preserve vital evidence, protect constitutional rights, and pursue charge reductions or case dismissals.
Facing criminal charges can disrupt your personal life and career and may put your freedom at risk. Understanding the legal distinctions between different levels of criminal charges helps you make informed decisions when your reputation and liberty are on the line. In Tennessee, criminal offenses fall into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies.
At Moreland Law Firm, located in Franklin, Tennessee, we work with clients in Nashville, Murfreesboro, Lebanon, Columbia, and Dickson. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about our criminal defense practice and how we can help.
Classifying Misdemeanor Offenses Under Tennessee Law
Misdemeanors represent less severe criminal acts under state statutes, but a conviction still brings substantial life disruptions. Tennessee law divides misdemeanor offenses into three main classes based on severity:
Class A misdemeanors: Carrying up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and fines of up to $2,500, these represent the most serious misdemeanor charges, such as simple possession of controlled substances, domestic assault, or first-offense DUI.
Class B misdemeanors: Punishable by up to six months in jail and fines of up to $500, these charges include offenses such as reckless driving or criminal trespass.
Class C misdemeanors: Designated as the least severe misdemeanor level, carrying up to 30 days in jail and fines of up to $50, these include minor infractions such as public intoxication or simple disorderly conduct.
While jail time for misdemeanor convictions is served in a local county jail rather than a state prison, the impact on your everyday life remains severe. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards routinely conduct background checks, meaning a misdemeanor conviction can create lasting barriers to housing and employment.
Defining Felony Offenses and Statutory Penalties
Felonies carry more severe potential penalties than misdemeanors, with authorized imprisonment ranges that depend on the offense and applicable sentencing rules. Tennessee classifies non-capital felonies into five distinct categories ranging from Class E to Class A, along with capital offenses:
Class E felonies: Punishable by one to six years in state prison and fines of up to $3,000, including theft of property valued between $1,000 and $2,500 or simple eviction interference involving violence.
Class D felonies: Carrying two to 12 years of incarceration and fines of up to $5,000, covering offenses such as aggravated assault or burglary.
Class C felonies: Carrying three to 15 years in state prison and fines of up to $10,000, including aggravated burglary or second-degree human trafficking.
Class B felonies: Punishable by eight to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000, involving serious crimes such as possession of scheduled drugs for resale or aggravated robbery.
Class A felonies: Carrying 15 to 60 years in prison and fines of up to $50,000, representing severe charges such as first-degree murder or aggravated rape.
Capital offenses: Reserved for premeditated first-degree murder, carrying penalties of life imprisonment, life without parole, or the death penalty.
Sentencing calculations depend heavily on your prior criminal record, placing individuals into specific offender ranges established by state statute. We can evaluate the state's aggravating-factor arguments and develop an appropriate response.
Long-Term Collateral Consequences of Criminal Convictions
The punishment for a criminal conviction extends far beyond jail time, probation conditions, and court fines. A felony conviction can affect voting eligibility and firearm possession, while other civil rights and restrictions depend on the applicable Tennessee and federal laws.
A felony conviction can affect professional licensing in healthcare, real estate, law, and finance, depending on the profession's licensing requirements and the circumstances of the offense.
Misdemeanor convictions also carry hidden burdens that impact your daily stability. Certain misdemeanor convictions may affect child custody or driving privileges, depending on the offense and applicable law. Drug convictions no longer independently disqualify students from federal student aid under the general federal eligibility rules.
We can help you explore charge reductions, diversion, or alternative sentencing options when you qualify.
Protecting Your Rights With a Tennessee Criminal Defense Attorney
Facing criminal accusations creates immense uncertainty, but you do not have to confront the legal system without guidance. Understanding whether you're up against a misdemeanor or a felony is the first step toward building a tailored strategy that safeguards your future.
At Moreland Law Firm, we provide aggressive representation to defend your rights, reputation, and personal liberty. Our attorney, Jay Moreland, works with clients across Nashville-Davidson County, Franklin-Williamson County, Murfreesboro-Rutherford County, Lebanon-Wilson County, Dickson-Dickson County, and Columbia-Maury County.
Contact our Franklin, Tennessee, office today to schedule a free consultation and start building your defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
What criminal defense services does Moreland Law Firm provide?
We provide comprehensive criminal defense representation for individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges, including DUI, domestic assault, drug offenses, weapons violations, violent crimes, and property offenses.
How does Moreland Law Firm assist clients facing felony charges?
Our local criminal defense attorney will thoroughly analyze police reports, challenge unlawful searches, cross-examine prosecution witnesses, and negotiate for charge reductions or dismissals to protect our clients' freedom and long-term rights.
Where is Moreland Law Firm located?
Our law firm is located in Franklin, Tennessee, and serves clients throughout Middle Tennessee, including Nashville, Murfreesboro, Lebanon, Columbia, and Dickson.