Felonies vs. Misdemeanors in Missouri: What You Need to Know Before You Step Into Court

Understanding the Difference Between Missouri Felonies and Misdemeanors

When you’re facing a criminal charge in Missouri, the first thing to understand is whether the state is accusing you of a felony or a misdemeanor. The distinction matters because it affects everything—from potential jail time to long-term consequences that can follow you for years. As a criminal lawyer in St. Louis, I spend a lot of time helping people make sense of what they’re really up against and what options they have to fight back.

What Is a Misdemeanor in Missouri?

Misdemeanors are considered lower-level offenses, but they still carry serious consequences. These charges include many DWI cases, some drug charges involving small amounts of controlled substances, minor assaults, and various traffic-related crimes.

• Class A misdemeanors: Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000
• Class B misdemeanors: Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000
• Class C misdemeanors: Up to 15 days in jail and fines up to $750
• Class D misdemeanors: Fines up to $500

Even a misdemeanor can impact employment, professional licenses, and background checks—especially when it involves violence or impaired driving.

What Is a Felony in Missouri?

Felonies cover more serious conduct, including violent crimes such as assault, robbery, and homicide, as well as higher-level drug charges like distribution or trafficking. Certain repeat DWI offenses also move into felony territory.

• Class A felonies: 10–30 years or life in prison
• Class B felonies: 5–15 years in prison
• Class C felonies: 3–10 years in prison
• Class D felonies: Up to 7 years in prison
• Class E felonies: Up to 4 years in prison

Felony convictions come with life-changing collateral consequences—loss of firearm rights, voting restrictions until completion of the sentence, limits on employment, and major housing barriers.

How a Defense Lawyer Builds a Strong Case

Every charge is different, but the approach should always be thorough, strategic, and tailored to your situation. Here’s how I typically build a defense for clients across St. Louis County and the surrounding areas:

1. Dig Into the Evidence

I start by reviewing the police reports, videos, lab results, witness statements, and any digital data involved. In DWI cases, that means analyzing traffic stops, breath tests, and field sobriety procedures. For drug or violent crime allegations, it often involves challenging searches, identifying weaknesses in witness accounts, or exposing gaps in the state’s timeline.

2. Protect Your Rights From Day One

If your rights were violated—illegal search, no probable cause, improper questioning—that can lead to evidence being suppressed or charges being reduced or dismissed.

3. Challenge the State’s Assumptions

Prosecutors often overcharge cases or rely on assumptions that don’t hold up once we start asking the right questions. My job is to expose those weaknesses and show the court the full picture.

4. Build a Practical Path Forward

Sometimes the best outcome comes from negotiating for reduced charges, diversion, treatment options, or civil compromises. Other times, the winning move is taking the case to trial. I help clients understand what’s realistic and how to protect their future.

Facing a Charge in St. Louis? Get Straight Answers.

If you’re dealing with a felony, misdemeanor, DWI, violent crime, drug charge, or any other criminal accusation, you don’t have to face it alone. I offer clear guidance, fast communication, and a practical plan for what comes next.

Call me today for a free consultation at (314) 852-5995 or visit my Clayton office to talk about your case and your options.