Felony
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Plain-English Meaning
The most serious category of crime in New York. Felonies carry sentences of more than one year and are served in state prison, not local jail. A felony conviction has serious long-term consequences including loss of certain civil rights.
Legal Context
Under N.Y. Penal Law § 10.00(5), a felony is an offense for which a sentence to a term of imprisonment in excess of one year may be imposed. New York felonies are classified A-I, A-II, B, C, D, and E — ranging from life sentences (A-I) to up to 4 years (E felony). Felony cases begin in local criminal court but are transferred to Supreme Court for trial or plea. A prior felony conviction can result in mandatory enhanced sentencing.
Real-Life Example
After being arrested for armed robbery, Devon was indicted by a grand jury on a B felony charge. The case was transferred to Supreme Court. With a prior felony conviction, he faced a mandatory minimum of 6 years if convicted at trial.
Related Statutes
Related Terms
Source
Based on N.Y. Penal Law § 10.00(5). Original B-Legal plain-language explanation.
N.Y. Penal Law § 10.00(5)
Definitions are simplified for education. Legal meanings vary by jurisdiction, context, and case facts. This definition is original B-Legal content and is not affiliated with or derived from any proprietary legal dictionary.