Felony FAQ

Felonies are broadly defined as all violations that must be punished by one year or more of confinement or by the infliction of the death penalty.

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Felonies in Tennessee are divided into five categories for purposes of sentencing: Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class E.

Class A felonies include burglary and some drug crimes. These are punishable by incarceration of a period not less than 15 nor more than 60 years and possibly a fine not to exceed $50,000, unless otherwise provided by statute.

Class B felonies include theft of $60,000 or more, possession of 0.5 grams or more of cocaine, and robbery. These are punishable by incarceration of a period not less than 8 nor more than 30 years and possibly a fine not to exceed $25,000, unless otherwise provided by statute.

Class C felonies include certain drug crimes and fraud. These are punishable by incarceration of a period not less than 3 years nor more than 1 year, and possibly a fine not to exceed $10,000, unless otherwise provided by statute.

Class D felonies include failure to pay child support, aggravated assault, and DUI. These are punishable by incarceration of a period not less than 2 years nor more than twelve 12 years, and possibly a fine not to exceed $5,000, unless otherwise provided by statute.

Class E felonies include computer fraud and aggravated gambling promotion. These are punishable by incarceration of a period not less than 1 year nor more than six 6 years, and possibly a fine not to exceed $3,000, unless otherwise provided by statute.