Progression is something that is important in our society, and we would be nowhere without its principles. The same theory applies to the law, which is ever-changing, ever-evolving, and for very good reason. In Indiana, the judicial system has seen several drastic changes within Indiana Criminal Code. One of the most recent and notable changes has to do with felony charges and convictions. What used to be categorized as a Class D Felony is now something quite different.
When did Indiana make these changes to the state criminal code? Continue reading to learn this and more.
July 1, 2014
The Indiana Criminal Code changes to the felony criminal punishment scale took effect on July 1, 2014. Prior to this date, there were four levels of felonies. Upon this date, the levels of felonies increased to six. Accordingly, the penalty ranges for each of the six felony levels changed too.
Felonies are now divided into 7 categories in Indiana: Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, Level 6, and Murder. Level 6 felony crimes are the least serious type of felony, and are commonly referred to as “wobblers” since they can most often be reduced to Class A Misdemeanors. Murder is of course, the most serious offense.
Look below to see the current levels of felonies, including their minimum, maximum, and advisory sentences. Misdemeanors were not affected by the 2014 changes to the Indiana Criminal Code.
Murder – Most Serious
Level 1 Felony:
Minimum 20 Years Maximum 40 Years, Advisory Sentence 30 Years
Level 2 Felony:
Minimum 10 Years Maximum 30 Years, Advisory Sentence 17.5 Years
Level 3 Felony:
Minimum 3 Years Maximum 16 Years, Advisory Sentence 9 Years
Level 4 Felony:
Minimum 2 Years Maximum 12 Years, Advisory Sentence 6 Years
Level 5 Felony:
Minimum 1 Year Maximum 6 Years, Advisory Sentence 3 Years
Level 6 Felony – Least Serious
Minimum 6 Months, Maximum 2.5 Years, Advisory Sentence 1 Year
Changes to the Credit Time Calculation
The credit time calculations for felony charges were also revised. Prior to July 1, 2014, crimes allegedly committed will get one day’s credit for each day served. Once changes were made, the credit time calculations for felonies changed to one day’s credit for every seven days served, with certain exceptions.
Trusted Legal Advice for Felony Charges in Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation with aggressive Indiana felony crime lawyer, David E. Lewis. He will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. With decades of hands-on experience, you can trust Attorney David E. Lewis to build you a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation for Indianapolis criminal defense, today.
