Classes of Felonies in North Carolina: What Do They Mean for You?
- kingrowelaw
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
If you or a loved one is facing felony charges in North Carolina, understanding how the state classifies felonies is essential to preparing your defense. North Carolina categorizes felonies from Class A (most serious) to Class I (least serious), and the class of your charge can significantly impact your potential sentence, your future, and your freedom.
At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, our Hickory felony lawyers guide clients through the criminal justice system every day. Below is a breakdown of each felony class and what you can expect under North Carolina law.
Understanding the Felony Classes
North Carolina law divides felonies into 10 classes: A, B1, B2, C, D, E, F, G, H, and I.
Class | Example Offense | Maximum Penalty |
A | First-degree murder | Death or life without parole |
B1 | First-degree rape | 144 months to life in prison |
B2 | Second-degree murder | Up to 484 months (40+ years) |
C | Armed robbery | Up to 231 months |
D | Voluntary manslaughter | Up to 204 months |
E | Assault with deadly weapon with intent | Up to 88 months |
F | Felony child abuse | Up to 62 months |
G | Possession of firearm by felon | Up to 47 months |
H | Habitual impaired driving (DWI) | Up to 39 months |
I | Forgery, first-time felony drug offense | Up to 24 months |
Sentencing Depends on More Than Just the Class
While the felony class sets the range of potential punishment, sentencing also depends on your prior criminal record. North Carolina uses a Structured Sentencing Grid that considers both the felony class and your Prior Record Level(Levels I through VI). Judges can issue:
Active punishment (jail/prison time)
Intermediate punishment (probation + jail or treatment)
Community punishment (probation, fines, or community service)
This is why having experienced local attorneys in your corner matters. At King & Rowe, we explore every option to minimize the impact of a felony charge, including pursuing dismissals, plea reductions, or alternative sentencing.
Why This Classification Matters to You
Employment and Housing: Class H and I felonies may qualify for expungement after a waiting period, while higher classes generally do not.
Gun Rights: Any felony conviction typically results in permanent loss of firearm rights.
Reputation and Future: Felony convictions appear on background checks and can limit access to education and federal benefits.
Facing a Felony in Hickory? Call King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law.
Felony charges are serious, but you don’t have to face them alone. At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we are experienced, local attorneys committed to protecting your rights and future. Whether you're charged with a Class I forgery or a Class C violent offense, we are here to help you navigate your legal options.
📍 King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law 11 East A Street, Newton, North Carolina 28658
📞 828.466.3858
Comments