
Understanding Felonies
In court: Felony matters are more serious than misdemeanors and are charged as felony offenses because an injury occurred, a weapon was used, or the amount of property involved is great. Most persons charged with a felony will have a preliminary hearing at which the prosecution is required to establish the basic facts of their case or the court will dismiss the charges.
Sentencing: Felonies are serious charges punishable by imprisonment in the Department of Corrections. Some felonies, particularly those involving firearms, repeat offenders and sex offenders, require that a convicted offender be sentenced to prison.
When the court is convinced that prison is not warranted, the court can give an offender jail time in a local facility. Alternatives to jail time can include work release, home detention, and community corrections.