An Overview of Felony Crimes in Nevada

The most serious criminal offenses in Nevada are charged as felonies. Felony crimes carry much harsher sentencing than misdemeanors and are punishable by a minimum term of 1 year in prison.

Felonies are classified into five categories, with Category A crimes being the most serious offenses and Category E offenses being the least serious type of felonies. Examples of the various crimes charged under the different felony categories include:

• Category A: First and second-degree murder, first-degree kidnapping, use or promotion of a child in pornography, and sexual assault
• Category B: Voluntary manslaughter, home invasion, robbery, and second-degree kidnapping
• Category C: Grand larceny of goods valued between $650 and $3,500, violating an extended order of protection, and a third offense of battery domestic violence
• Category D: Involuntary manslaughter, third-degree arson, unpaid casino markers, and forgery
• Category E: Criminal gang recruitment, peeping with a camera or recorder, and soliciting a child prostitute

Penalties for Felony Offenses

Each category of felony carries a different set of possible penalties according to state law. Regardless of the specific crime, anyone convicted of a felony in Nevada will be sentenced to a minimum of 1 year in prison, though the maximum sentencing will differ depending on the offense.

According to NRS 193.130, standard sentencing for a felony conviction is as follows:

• Category A Felony: the death penalty, life in prison without parole, or life in prison with the chance of parole
• Category B Felony: a minimum term of 1 year to a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine
• Category C Felony: a minimum term of 1 year to a maximum of 5 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000
• Category D Felony: a minimum term of 1 year to a maximum of 4 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000
• Category E Felony: a minimum term of 1 year to a maximum of 4 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000; in some cases the court may suspend the sentence and grant probation

As with any crime, felony charges must be brought against a defendant within the statute of limitations. The length of time allowed for prosecution of a felony will vary depending upon the crime, although certain offenses, such as homicide, have no statute of limitations.

Having any felony conviction on your record can negatively impact all areas of your life. Prior felony convictions could be used against you in future cases and result in additional penalties under Nevada’s habitual offenders law (NRS 207.010). If you are accused of a felony offense in Las Vegas or elsewhere in Clark County, retain the defense of De Castroverde Law Group as soon as possible.

Our experienced and accomplished Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys have successfully handled felony cases throughout the state and can aggressively fight your charges. Call (702) 222-9999 to learn how you can benefit from the defense of De Castroverde Law Group.