Anyone who is arrested for a felony offense understands the serious nature of their legal situation. This is because felonies are the most serious offenses, and the most severely punished. In Indiana, they are divided into 7 categories, from Level 6 to Level 1, and at the top, Murder. Each level of felony is assigned a separate statute regarding penalization, and for the less serious felonies, this includes the terms of probation.

Continue reading to learn more about the general terms of probation for felony convictions, and what to do if you have been recently charged with a felony in Indiana.

Felony Offenses

A felony is any crime that is punishable by more than 1 year in jail, and up to $10,000 in fines, as well as, a long list of additional penalties, which we will discuss shortly in this blog. Level 6 felonies are the least serious of all felonies, and are colloquially referred to as “wobblers” in the legal industry since they can often times be reduced to misdemeanors with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. They are punishable by up to 3 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. Level 1 and 2 felonies are the most serious of felonies, with the exception of murder, which tops the list of serious offenses. Level 1 and 2 levels are punishable by up to 30 years or more, depending on the variables of the offense.

Probation

Probation is a legal penalty that serves in place of jail time. When a person is convicted of a felony, depending on the circumstances of their case, they may be offered probation and other legal penalties in place of serving time in jail. When the probation period is complete, it is the same as “time served” in jail. Probation is the period of time after a person is convicted of a crime in which they are supervised by the courts, and obligated to perform or complete certain court orders.

Probation is assigned for a set number of months, generally ranging from 3 to 24 months, depending on the crime. During this time, a person must comply with all court orders and refrain from committing any offenses. If they fail to do this, they can be charged with another crime: violating probation. This brings on a whole other case of legal charges and penalties. Below are some more general terms of probation. Not all terms are assigned to every case. Every case is different and every judge is different. The results of your felony case and subsequent probation will depend on the individual details of your case and charges.

General Terms Include, but are not Limited to:

• Offenders cannot leave the state.
• Offenders must submit to regular scheduled drug screening.
• Offenders must report to all scheduled probation meetings on time.
• Offenders must remain drug and alcohol-free.
• Offenders must complete all assigned community service, alcohol/drug education classes, or impact panels.
• Offenders must pay all court fines and fees in full, on time.
• Offenders must maintain employment.
• Offenders may be subject to house arrest, ignition interlock devices, or electronic ankle devices.

If you have been arrested recently, and you believe you may face felony charges, contact a licensed criminal defense attorney right away. They have the resources and knowledge to best protect your rights and preserve your freedoms.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for reputable and experienced Indianapolis criminal defense you can trust. He is an aggressive criminal lawyer that can help you navigate your case in a way that may be able to reduce or dismiss your charges. Our law firm offers free initial consultations and is happy to answer your questions about the levels of punishment in Indiana and its criminal process. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, IN.