Crimes in Virginia are classified as either felonies or misdemeanors. Felonies are the most serious kinds of crimes. Felonies have the possibility of jail time. Most felonies are designated as Class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6. Examples of felonies are murder, assault, burglary, and the sale of illegal drugs.
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes. There are four classes of misdemeanors. The most common ones are Classes 1, 2, or 3. A Class 4 misdemeanor is the least designated of the misdemeanors in Virginia.
This article focuses on the four classes of misdemeanors in Virginia along with their definitions, examples, and sentences.
Class 1 Misdemeanor
Class 1 misdemeanors are punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. Petty theft, domestic assault, DUI, vandalism, cyberbullying, burglary, criminal mischief, trespassing, and possession of a controlled substance are examples of Class 1 misdemeanors.
If the law in Virginia doesn’t designate a misdemeanor class or set forth a particular punishment, the crime automatically defaults to a Class 1 misdemeanor.