The Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony in Minnesota
By Sullivan Rice
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Minnesota, one of the first questions you'll hear is whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony. This isn’t just legal jargon—understanding the difference can mean the difference between a fine and jail time, between a mistake you move on from and a conviction that follows you for life.
At Jack Rice Defense, we believe that informed clients make stronger decisions. Here’s what you need to know about the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Minnesota—and why having an experienced defense attorney matters from the start.
What Is a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is a less serious criminal offense under Minnesota law, but that doesn’t mean it should be taken lightly.
Types of Misdemeanors:
Petty Misdemeanor: Not technically a crime; maximum penalty is a $300 fine (e.g., speeding tickets, minor traffic violations).
Standard Misdemeanor: Maximum penalty is 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Gross Misdemeanor: More serious than a standard misdemeanor but still below a felony; punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $3,000 fine.
Examples:
First-time DWI
Disorderly conduct
Theft of property under $500
Driving after revocation
Some domestic assault cases
Misdemeanors can still appear on your criminal record, impact employment opportunities, and carry immigration consequences. That’s why even for a “minor” charge, smart legal defense is essential.
What Is a Felony?
A felony is a much more serious offense and carries far more severe consequences. In Minnesota, any crime punishable by more than one year in prison is considered a felony.
Examples:
Drug trafficking or possession of controlled substances
Felony-level assault or domestic violence
Aggravated robbery or burglary
Criminal sexual conduct
Homicide
Felony convictions often come with significant prison time, large fines, long-term probation, and the loss of certain civil rights—like voting or possessing firearms. A felony record can permanently affect your ability to get a job, find housing, or access education.
Why the Difference Matters
The classification of your charge will determine how your case is handled in court, what kind of sentence you’re facing, and what defense strategies are available.
At Jack Rice Defense, we dig deep into the details of your case—investigating the evidence, challenging police procedure, and negotiating with prosecutors. Sometimes, we’re able to get felony charges reduced to misdemeanors, or even dismissed entirely. In other cases, we fight to win at trial or seek alternative sentencing options that protect your future.
Your Rights, Your Defense
Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, every case deserves serious attention. Don’t assume you can handle it on your own or that a “minor” charge won’t have long-term consequences.
Jack Rice is a former prosecutor and award-winning criminal defense attorney. He brings decades of experience—and a deep understanding of Minnesota law—to every case, from traffic offenses to serious felonies. Call Jack Rice Defense at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339
When your freedom is on the line, knowing the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is just the beginning. Knowing who to call next? That’s everything. Let Jack Rice Defense protect your rights—and your future.
