What is a Class 4 Felony in Virginia?
In the state of Virginia, a Class 4 felony is a serious criminal offense that carries significant penalties and consequences. In this article, we will delve into the definition, penalties, and examples of Class 4 felonies in Virginia.
Definition of a Class 4 Felony
A Class 4 felony is a felony offense that is considered less severe than a Class 1 or Class 2 felony, but more severe than a Class 5 felony. According to Virginia Code § 18.2-10, a Class 4 felony is defined as a felony that is punishable by a maximum term of imprisonment of 2 to 10 years.
Penalties for a Class 4 Felony
The penalties for a Class 4 felony in Virginia include:
- Imprisonment: The maximum term of imprisonment for a Class 4 felony is 2 to 10 years.
- Fine: The maximum fine for a Class 4 felony is $100,000.
- Probation: In addition to imprisonment and fine, a defendant may also be placed on probation for a period of up to 5 years.
Examples of Class 4 Felonies in Virginia
Some examples of Class 4 felonies in Virginia include:
- Embezzlement: Embezzlement is the theft of money or property by a person who has been entrusted with it. (Virginia Code § 18.2-111)
- Forgery: Forgery is the act of making or altering a document with the intent to defraud. (Virginia Code § 18.2-172)
- Petit Larceny: Petit larceny is the theft of property valued at less than $200. (Virginia Code § 18.2-95)
- Burglary: Burglary is the unauthorized entry into a dwelling or structure with the intent to commit a felony or larceny. (Virginia Code § 18.2-92)
Table: Class 4 Felonies in Virginia
| Felony | Description | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement | Theft of money or property by a person who has been entrusted with it | 2-10 years imprisonment, $100,000 fine, 5 years probation |
| Forgery | Making or altering a document with the intent to defraud | 2-10 years imprisonment, $100,000 fine, 5 years probation |
| Petit Larceny | Theft of property valued at less than $200 | 2-10 years imprisonment, $100,000 fine, 5 years probation |
| Burglary | Unauthorized entry into a dwelling or structure with the intent to commit a felony or larceny | 2-10 years imprisonment, $100,000 fine, 5 years probation |
Consequences of a Class 4 Felony Conviction
A Class 4 felony conviction can have significant consequences on a person’s life, including:
- Loss of Voting Rights: A person convicted of a Class 4 felony may lose their right to vote.
- Loss of Gun Rights: A person convicted of a Class 4 felony may lose their right to possess a firearm.
- Difficulty Finding Employment: A person convicted of a Class 4 felony may have difficulty finding employment due to the felony conviction.
- Impact on Immigration Status: A person convicted of a Class 4 felony may face immigration consequences, including deportation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a Class 4 felony in Virginia is a serious criminal offense that carries significant penalties and consequences. It is essential to understand the definition, penalties, and examples of Class 4 felonies in Virginia to avoid being charged with this type of offense. If you or someone you know has been charged with a Class 4 felony, it is crucial to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure the best possible outcome.
