Being accused of committing any crime in Pennsylvania can be a life-changing event. Your reputation may suffer irreparable harm even if a trial proves your innocence. Troubling as that already is, certain crimes have more severe punishments if you’re found guilty.
Murder
Offenders who receive the harshest punishment in Pennsylvania are those found guilty of murder. The murder of the first degree involves intentional killing. The murder of the second degree may be assessed on an individual if they kill someone in the process of committing a felony. Third-degree murders account for all other types of murders.
Severe penalties are leveled on those who commit the aforementioned crimes.
A first-degree murder charge is regarded as a capital offense in Pennsylvania and is thus punishable by death. Offenders may also be hit with a life sentence. Second-degree murder carries a life sentence. An individual charged with third-degree murder may be sentenced to a maximum of 40 years in prison.
First-Degree Felonies
First-degree felonies also carry significant penalties in Pennsylvania. Anyone found guilty of a first-degree felony in the state can be sentenced to a prison sentence that lasts for 20 years. In addition, they may be ordered to pay a fine of $25,000.
Crimes classified as first-degree felonies in Pennsylvania include
- Rape
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
- Kidnapping
- Arson endangering a person
- Theft of property valued at $500,000 or more
At Brennan Law, our sex crime defense lawyers in Philadelphia can help you navigate the criminal justice process and defend your rights if you’ve been accused.
Second-Degree Felonies
Right behind first-degree felonies in terms of severity are the second-degree felonies. The penalties for second-degree felonies in Pennsylvania are still quite severe.
You may be ordered to serve 10 years in prison if you are found guilty of this offense. Fines are also included as penalties for these crimes. The maximum fine for a second-degree felony is $25,000.
Crimes regarded as second-degree felonies in Pennsylvania include:
- Aggravated assault
- Indecent assault
- Sexual assault
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Theft of property worth at least $100,000 but no more than $500,000
Seeking the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Philadelphia, PA is a must if you are charged with a second-degree felony.
Third-Degree Felonies
Third-degree felonies also come with severe penalties for offenders in Pennsylvania. The maximum prison sentence for a third-degree felony is seven years. Meanwhile, the maximum fine for an individual who committed a third-degree felony is $15,000.
Examples of crimes regarded as third-degree felonies in Pennsylvania are:
- Possession of child pornography
- Possession of drugs with intent to distribute
- Bribery
- Theft of property with a value of at least $2,000 but no more than $100,000
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you’re in need of criminal defense in Pennsylvania, call Brennan Law Offices today.