What Are the Penalties for a Criminal Conviction in Pennsylvania?
Penalties for a criminal conviction in Pennsylvania vary based on the severity of the offense, your criminal record, and case details. Sentences may include fines, probation, or prison, ranging from minor penalties for summary offenses to long prison terms for serious charges.
No matter what type of charge you are facing, the right defense representation is imperative. Contact Decker Bradburn to learn how our Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyers can protect you.
Sentencing Guidelines
Pennsylvania’s sentencing guidelines recommend prison terms based on two factors:
- The offense’s gravity score (how serious the crime is)
- Your prior record score (your criminal history)
Judges consult these guidelines but still have the discretion to impose sentences above or below the recommended range if they state reasons on the record.
Incarceration
Felony convictions can result in lengthy state prison sentences. First-degree felonies can carry sentences of 10 to 20 years or more. Second-degree felonies carry a sentence of five to ten years. Third-degree felonies carry a sentence of 2.5 to 7 years. Judges impose minimum and maximum terms, and parole eligibility depends on serving the minimum sentence.
Misdemeanor convictions result in county jail sentences. First-degree misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of up to 5 years. Second-degree misdemeanors carry a maximum penalty of 2 years. Third-degree misdemeanors carry a maximum of 1 year, and summary offenses carry a maximum of 90 days.
Fines
Financial penalties accompany most convictions. Felonies can result in fines up to $15,000, though amounts vary by statute. First-degree misdemeanors carry fines up to $10,000, while second-degree misdemeanors carry fines up to $5,000. Third-degree misdemeanors and summary offenses carry fines of up to $2,500 and $300, respectively. Courts also impose costs, restitution to victims, and fees that can total thousands of dollars beyond the fine itself.
Probation and Parole
Many sentences include probation, either instead of jail or as post-release supervision. Probation requires reporting to an officer, drug and alcohol testing, employment or education, and compliance with the law. Violations can result in jail time for the original offense. Parole is similar but follows part of a prison sentence.
Collateral Consequences
Beyond direct penalties, criminal convictions create lasting collateral consequences. Felony convictions result in loss of voting rights while incarcerated and loss of firearm rights. Both felonies and misdemeanors appear on background checks, affecting employment, housing, professional licensing, student loans, and immigration status. DUI convictions trigger license suspension. Drug convictions can affect eligibility for federal student aid. Sex offense convictions require registration as a sex offender, often for life.
Enhanced Penalties
Certain factors increase penalties, including:
- Crimes involving weapons, vulnerable victims, or large amounts of drugs trigger mandatory minimum sentences
- Hate crimes and crimes committed in school zones have increased penalties
Judges consider aggravating factors such as a lack of remorse, the vulnerability of victims, and the use of a position of trust when imposing sentences. Your defense attorney can challenge aggravating factors or present mitigating factors to help reduce your sentence if convicted.
Learn How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Work to Minimize Penalties
If you are facing criminal charges in State College or Centre County, do not delay getting the legal support you need. Contact the criminal defense attorneys at Decker Bradburn at 814-308-8895 or online for a confidential case evaluation. Let us review your charges and explain how we can fight to minimize the penalties you face.