New York State Penal Law - Felony Classes Sentences

New York State - Felony Classes and Sentences

All Felonies range in classification from 'A' to 'E' with the 'A' crimes as the most serious. The following felony class chart is a general sentence classification it does not account for prior criminal history. One with prior felony convictions are treated with an increased minimum and maximum sentence.

Offense	Sentence
'A' Violent Felony	Life, 20-25 years
'B' Violent Felony	5-25 years
'B' Non Violent Felony	1-3, Max 25 years
'C' Violent Felony	3 1/2 to 15 years
'C' Non Violent Felony	No Jail, Probation, 1-2 years to 15 years
'D' Violent Felony	2-7 years
'D' Non Violent Felony	No Jail, Probation, 1-3 to 7 years
'E' Violent Felony	No Jail, Probation, 1 1/2 to 4 years
'E' Non Violent Felony	No Jail, Probation, 1 1/3 to 4 years

This is general information only and should be considered a ROUGH GUIDE.
*** READERS SHOULD CONSULT WITH A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. ***

Refer to NYS Penal Law Article 70 - Sentences of Imprisonment for details.

Many factors are involved in sentencing. Such as Prior Convictions, Non-Violent Predicate, Violent Predicate, Persistent Felony Offender, Juvenile Offender, Youthful Offender and many others. Drug offenses are subject to punishments that may not be reflected in this basic sentencing chart.

Prior Convictions - If a person has no prior felony convictions or no felony convictions within the last ten years.
Non-Violent Predicate - A person has a previous non-violent felony conviction within the last ten years.
Violent Predicate - A person has a previous violent felony conviction within the last ten years.
Persistent Felony Offender - If a person has two or more previous felony convictions then he/she may be considered a persistent felony offender and may be sentenced to life in prison.

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this site is accurate and current, readers should consult with a qualified attorney before acting on any such information. No liability is assumed by this website for any losses suffered directly or indirectly by any person relying on the information because its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed.

New York State Law

Penal Law

Consolidated Laws of New York's Penal code

New York State - Felony Classes and Sentences

Penal Law - Table of Contents