A Practical Guide from Inch Law

When someone sees a charge like “Class 5 felony” or “Class 3 felony” on their paperwork, it can feel like stepping into a world that doesn’t speak the same language. The terms sound technical, the consequences feel heavy, and it’s tough to know what any of it actually means for your life. That’s why we put this guide together. At Inch Law, we work with people across Virginia every day who are trying to make sense of these charges, and we believe straight talk helps people get grounded and feel more in control.

Virginia uses a clear felony-level system, but most people never hear about it until they’re suddenly living through it. This breakdown will help you understand what each level means, what the penalties look like, and what these charges can mean long-term.

Table of Contents

How Felonies Work in Virginia

In Virginia, felonies are the most serious type of criminal offense. They come with the possibility of more than a year behind bars, usually in a state facility instead of a local jail. Felonies are divided into six classes. Class 1 felonies sit at the top with the toughest penalties, while Class 6 felonies are on the lower end of the felony range.

Beyond the sentence itself, a felony can change parts of your life you may not be thinking about right now — things like voting, owning a firearm, employment, housing, and background checks. And because Virginia doesn’t offer broad expungement options, many felony convictions stay on a record permanently. Understanding the felony level isn’t just about reading legal language — it’s about getting a sense of the road ahead.

Class 1 Felonies: The Most Serious Category

Penalty: Life imprisonment and a fine up to $100,000
If the defendant was 18 or older at the time of the offense: Life without parole
Examples: Aggravated or premeditated forms of murder

Class 2 Felonies: Extremely Serious Violent or Intentional Crimes

Penalty: 20 years to life, plus a possible fine up to $100,000
Examples: Second-degree murder, aggravated malicious wounding, armed burglary

Class 3 Felonies: Severe Crimes with High Sentencing Ranges

Penalty: 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000
Examples: Arson, breaking and entering with intent to commit a felony, attempted poisoning

Class 4 Felonies: Serious Offenses Involving Harm, Risk, or Misconduct

Penalty: 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000
Examples: Human trafficking, child abuse, forgery of public records

Class 5 Felonies: “Wobblers” That Can Be Felonies or Misdemeanors

Penalty: 1 to 10 years in prison or up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500
Examples: Involuntary manslaughter, perjury, certain abductions, some fraud crimes

Class 6 Felonies: The Least Serious Felony Category

Penalty: 1 to 5 years in prison or up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500
Examples: Strangulation, certain hit-and-run offenses, credit card fraud at higher amounts

Unclassified Felonies in Virginia

Some Virginia offenses don’t fit neatly into the six-class system. These “unclassified felonies” rely on the specific statute to determine the penalty. They often show up in specialized areas like financial crimes or offenses with very particular circumstances. The sentencing range depends entirely on the wording of that specific law, which makes a careful reading of the statute important.

The Real-World Impact of a Felony in Virginia

The legal penalty is only part of the picture. A felony conviction can shape everything from job opportunities to housing to professional licensing. It can complicate immigration status, child custody disputes, and personal relationships. Many people tell us that the hardest part isn’t the sentence — it’s the long trail the conviction leaves behind. Knowing the felony class helps you understand what’s at stake so you can make informed decisions as you move forward.

Why It Helps to Know the Felony Level

Learning what each felony level really means gives you clarity during a stressful moment. It helps you understand possible sentencing, whether a charge might be reduced, and what options may be open to you. Instead of feeling lost in legal terms, you get a clearer picture of what the Commonwealth is actually accusing you of.

When You Need Straight Answers, Inch Law Is Here

If you’re facing a felony charge in Virginia, you don’t need to navigate the system alone. Inch Law works with clients across the state who are trying to understand their charges, protect their future, and get back on solid ground. When you want clear guidance and a team that listens, reach out to Inch Law. You deserve support that’s steady, honest, and ready to help you move forward.

What Do the Different Felony Levels Mean in Virginia?