Our content is written legal experts and reviewed by experienced criminal defense attorneys with deep trial experience. We follow strict internal standards so that everything we share is reliable, transparent, and up to date.
- Expert: Steve Prager — Criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor; supervised the domestic violence prosecution unit in El Paso County before founding Prager Law
- Experience: Licensed in Colorado for 8 years; handled 40+ jury trials across the state; extensive background in criminal charges, DUI charges, domestic violence and serious criminal cases
- Last updated: July 2025
The difference between A Felony and A Misdemeanor primarily comes down to the severity of the offense and the punishment imposed. Felonies are considered more serious crimes, often involving violence or significant harm, and typically carry prison sentences longer than one year. In contrast, misdemeanors are less severe offenses that usually result in shorter jail terms, fines, or probation. Understanding how these charges differ is crucial for navigating the legal system and anticipating potential consequences.
What is the Main Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
A felony is a serious criminal offense typically associated with more severe penalties than misdemeanors. Examples include murder, robbery, and drug trafficking. Felonies are characterized by the potential for substantial prison sentences, often exceeding one year. Convicted felons may face additional consequences such as loss of voting rights, firearms possession restrictions, and limited employment opportunities.
In Colorado, felonies are further subdivided into six classes with their own associated penalties. Generally, these are:
Felonies in Colorado
Class 1 felony
Prison Sentence: Life
Fines: N/A
Mandatory Parole: N/A
Class 1 felonies carry a mandatory term of life imprisonment with no possibility of parole
Class 2 felony
Prison Sentence: 8-24 years
Fines: $5,000-$1,000,000
Mandatory Parole: 3 years (5 years for crimes of violence)
Class 3 felony
Prison Sentence: 4-12 years
Fines: $3,000-$750,000
Mandatory Parole: 3 years
Class 4 felony
Prison Sentence: 2-6 years
Fines: $2,000-$500,000
Mandatory Parole: 3 years
Class 5 felony
Prison Sentence: 1-3 years
Fines: $1,000-$100,000
Mandatory Parole: 2 years
Class 6 felony
Prison Sentence: 12-18 months
Fines: $1,000-$100,000
Mandatory Parole: 1 year
However, some felonies are defined as extraordinary risk and carry additional penalties. Keep in mind that some felonies are also subject to the greater aggravated range, depending on the circumstances of their commission, including if committed as a crime of violence. The table above is the base level of felony sentencing.
Drug felonies have their own sentencing structure and also depend on the severity of the crime.
Drug Felonies in Colorado
Class 1 drug felony
Prison sentence: 8-32 years
Fines: $5,000-$1,000,000
Drug offender Surcharge: $4,500
Mandatory Parole: 3 years
Class 2 drug felony
Prison sentence: 4-8 years
Fines: $3,000-$750,000
Drug Offender Surcharge: $3,000
Mandatory Parole: 2 years
Class 3 drug felony
Prison sentence: 2-4 years
Fines: $2,000-$500,000
Drug Offender Surcharge: $2,000
Mandatory Parole: 1 year
Class 4 drug felony
Prison sentence: 6-12 months
Fines: $1,000-$200,000
Drug Offender Surcharge: $1,500
Mandatory Parole: 1 year
Like non-drug related felonies, drug felonies can also be subject to greater sentences for aggravating factors.
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses compared to felonies. They include crimes like petty theft, disorderly conduct, and low-level assault. Misdemeanors are punishable by less severe penalties, typically involving fines, probation, or imprisonment for up to one year. While the consequences are less severe than felonies, misdemeanors can still impact an individual’s criminal record and future opportunities.
Generally, sentencing for misdemeanors looks like this:
Misdemeanors in Colorado
Class 1 Misdemeanor
Jail: Up to 18 months
Fines: Up to $5,000
Class 2 Misdemeanor
Jail: Up to 12 months
Fines: Up to $1,000
Class 3 Misdemeanor
Jail: Up to 6 months
Fines: Up to $750
Class 3 misdemeanors no longer exist in Colorado, but some older cases may still carry class 3 misdemeanor penalties.
The Impact of Felonies and Misdemeanors on Your Future
Understanding the legal consequences of felonies and misdemeanors is paramount. Felony convictions can lead to extended periods of incarceration, hefty fines, and the loss of civil rights such as gun ownership. Additionally, felons often face challenges in securing employment and housing due to the gravity of their convictions.
In contrast, misdemeanor convictions, while less severe, can still have a significant impact on an individual’s life. They may result in fines, probation, community service, and short-term incarceration. Misdemeanors can also affect employment prospects and tarnish one’s criminal record, potentially causing hurdles in various aspects of life.
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges, it’s essential to seek professional legal guidance. Prager Law specializes in navigating the complexities of the legal system. Whether dealing with the potential ramifications of a felony or mitigating the impact of a misdemeanor, we provide personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstances.
