Criminal Sentencing in Indiana

Throughout much of the criminal justice system in the United States, there are different levels of crimes. Usually, crimes are defined as “felonies” or “misdemeanors,” depending on the circumstances of the offense. Within those two categories, there are different levels and classes. In Indiana, there are six felony levels and three misdemeanor classes, each carrying a different sentencing range for a defendant who is found guilty of a particular level or class of offense. The following is the sentencing range for each felony level/misdemeanor class.

Felony Level Sentencing Ranges

Level 1 Felonies
A person who commits a Level 1 felony shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of 20-40 years, with an advisory sentence of 30 years. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $10,000.

Level 2 Felonies
A person who commits a Level 2 felony shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of 10-30 years, with an advisory sentence of 17 ½ years. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $10,000.

Level 3 Felonies
A person who commits a Level 3 felony shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of 3-16 years, with an advisory sentence of 9 years. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $10,000.

Level 4 Felonies
4 FeloniesA person who commits a Level 4 felony shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of 2-12 years, with an advisory sentence of 6 years. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $10,000.

Level 5 Felonies
A person who commits a Level 5 felony shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of 1-6 years, with an advisory sentence of 3 years. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $10,000.

Level 6 Felonies
A person who commits a Level 6 felony shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of 6 months to 2 ½ years, with an advisory sentence of 1 ½ years. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $10,000.

Misdemeanor Sentencing Ranges

Class A Misdemeanor
A person who commits a Class A misdemeanor shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of not more than 1 year. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $5,000.

Class B Misdemeanor
A person who commits a Class B misdemeanor shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of not more than 180 days. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $1,000.

Class C Misdemeanor
A person who commits a Class C misdemeanor shall be imprisoned for a fixed term of not more than 60 days. In addition, the person may be fined not more than $500.

There are other factors that could result in additional time added to a sentence, in excess of the maximum amount permitted by the sentencing range. Type of offense and criminal history are just two of those factors that could result in a longer sentence.

If you have been charged with a crime, contact McNeelyLaw LLP today. Call us at 317-825-5110 to talk with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate through the complexities of your case.

This McNeelyLaw LLP publication should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion of any specific facts or circumstances. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult your own lawyer on any specific legal questions you may have concerning your situation.