Pennsylvania classifies crimes into three general categories, Felonies, Misdemeanors, and Summary offense. The difference between each of these is the severity of the crime. Felonies are the most severe crimes and have the most severe penalties. Summary offenses are the least severe. Misdemeanors are in the middle. That doesn’t mean misdemeanors are not severe, Misdemeanors do generally carry the possibility of incarceration, they’re just not felonies.
To give you an idea, First degree murder is a felony while simple assault is a misdemeanor. If someone is killed, that’s a felony. If someone is punched and there is no serious injury, that’s a misdemeanor.
What I talk with clients all the time about is making sure that the allegations fit the grading of the offense and that they’re not being coerced into taking a plea because they are being accused of one thing, but are being charged with something much more severe.
If you have any questions about the topic discussed in this video, or any criminal law matter, please give us a call at Bononi & Company 724-832-2499.