Understanding Misdemeanor vs Felony Charges in Little Rock, AR

Like other states, Arkansas broadly divides crimes into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Understanding misdemeanor vs felony charges in Little Rock, AR, is an important first step for anyone accused of committing a serious crime. Each category requires a unique legal defense strategy. Depending on the type of crime that you are accused of and the strength of your legal representation, you could potentially have your charges reduced to a lesser offense.

Key Differences Between Felonies and Misdemeanors

Felonies are reserved for the most serious crimes that cause the most harm to victims, while misdemeanors are more likely to involve crimes that do not involve violence. Felonies carry harsher consequences that can leave convicted defendants confined to prison for years, decades, or even a lifetime.

Misdemeanors can also result in confinement at the county jail, but usually only for days, weeks, or months at most. Some crimes are charged as misdemeanors the first time but as a felony for repeat offenders. Both types of crimes can lead to long-term consequences that can make finding employment or housing challenging.

What Qualifies as a Felony in Little Rock?

Felony charges in Arkansas are divided into five classes: Y, A, B, C, and D. Class Y felonies are the most severe. Common crimes that can result in a felony are aggravated assault, armed robbery, and drug trafficking. Little Rock reported 3,429 violent crimes in 2024, and many of those crimes led to felony charges.

Felony charges in Little Rock are typically heard at the Pulaski County Circuit Court on West Markham Street. Someone charged with a violent crime or aggravated assault, of which there were 2,929 cases in Little Rock in 2023, could be charged with a felony that could result in prison sentences, highly restrictive parole conditions, and long-term barriers to employment and housing. Under Ark. Code § 16-90-1406, individuals may petition the court to seal certain felony convictions.

Common Misdemeanor Charges in Little Rock

While less severe than felonies, misdemeanors can have serious consequences for anyone convicted of this class of crime. Common misdemeanor charges in Little Rock include intoxication, disorderly conduct, and shoplifting. Shoplifting is considered a property dispute crime in a city that saw 10,629 property crimes in 2024.

These cases are typically handled at the Pulaski County District Court – Criminal Division, which is located on West Roosevelt Road. While misdemeanors may seem minor, they can result in fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. Repeat offenses and aggravated factors can elevate misdemeanor crimes to higher-level misdemeanors or even a felony.

How Charges Can Be Upgraded or Reduced

Certain crimes in Little Rock are known as “wobblers” because they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances of the crime and other factors, such as a lengthy rap sheet. One example would be simple assault, which can be charged as a misdemeanor, and if it involves a weapon or serious injury, it may be upgraded to a felony.

Similarly, theft charges can depend on the value of the property involved. How these charges are initially classified can influence how an attorney approaches their client’s defense. An attorney can scrutinize the evidence and question the inclusion of aggravating factors to try and have a felony reduced to a misdemeanor.

Legal Consequences Beyond Jail Time

Both misdemeanors and felonies carry consequences beyond incarceration. A misdemeanor conviction may lead to probation, community service, or mandatory counseling. Felonies can result in loss of voting rights and gun rights. Felons routinely face challenges securing employment or housing.

In a city like Little Rock, where background checks are common in both public and private sectors, even a misdemeanor on your record can limit your opportunities. Expungement or sealing may be possible in some cases, either through petitioning the courts or requesting a pardon from the governor.

FAQs

Q: How Many Misdemeanors Equal a Felony in Arkansas?

A: Arkansas law does not automatically convert multiple misdemeanors into a felony. However, repeat offenses, especially for increasing crimes like theft, drug possession or domestic violence in Arkansas, can lead to enhanced charges. Habitual offenders may face felony charges if they have prior convictions. For example, multiple DWIs within a certain time frame can escalate to a felony. Courts consider prior criminal history when determining penalties.

Q: What Are the Levels of Misdemeanors and Felonies?

A: Arkansas classifies misdemeanors into Class A, B, and C, with Class A being the most serious. Felonies are divided into Class Y, A, B, C, and D, with Class Y being the most severe. Misdemeanors carry shorter jail sentences and fines, while felonies related to DUI can result in years or life in prison. Sentencing depends on the crime’s nature and aggravating factors.

Q: How Serious Is a Class C Misdemeanor in Arkansas?

A: A Class C misdemeanor is considered the least severe misdemeanor offense in Arkansas. While it typically carries a lighter sentence than Class A or B offenses, it can still lead to jail time and fines. Convictions may create a lasting criminal record, which could affect employment, housing, or other important aspects of daily life. It’s still important to take the charge seriously.

Q: Do You Go to Jail for a Misdemeanor in Arkansas?

A: Yes, jail time is possible for a misdemeanor in Arkansas. The length of time depends on the severity of the offense. More serious misdemeanors carry longer potential sentences, while less serious ones may result in minimal or no jail time. Alternatives like probation or diversion are sometimes available, but prior convictions or aggravating factors can increase the risk of incarceration.

Schedule Your Criminal Charge Consultation Today

Felonies and misdemeanor charges can lead to very different outcomes. Whether you’re facing a DUI, drug charge, violent offense, or white-collar crime, knowing which category of criminal charge you are facing is a critical first step for preparing your criminal defense.

Lemley Law Partners provides aggressive representation for individuals charged with crimes in Little Rock, Pulaski County, and beyond. We bring years of experience successfully handling cases in Pulaski County District Court and Pulaski County Circuit Court and are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing favorable outcomes. Contact our office today to schedule your confidential consultation and start building your defense.