Felony vs. Misdemeanor: What’s the Real Difference in Indiana?

If you've been charged with a crime in Indiana, one of the first questions you might have is whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a felony—and what that actually means for your future. While both are serious, the differences between the two are significant and can impact everything from the time you serve to your ability to get a job, vote, or even carry a firearm.

As a criminal defense attorney practicing in Indiana, I’ve handled hundreds of these cases and helped clients understand the legal system and their options. This post breaks down the difference between misdemeanors and felonies in Indiana in a way that’s easy to understand—because when your future is on the line, you deserve clarity.

What Is a Misdemeanor in Indiana?

A misdemeanor is considered a lower-level criminal offense, but that doesn’t mean it’s something to ignore or take lightly. In Indiana, misdemeanors are divided into three classes:

• Class A Misdemeanor: The most serious, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and up to $5,000 in fines. Common examples include battery, DUI (first offense), and theft under $750.

• Class B Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Examples include public intoxication and disorderly conduct.

• Class C Misdemeanor: The least serious, with a penalty of up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. Think of infractions like driving without a license.

While a misdemeanor conviction may not carry the same stigma as a felony, it can still show up on background checks, limit employment opportunities, and affect professional licenses or immigration status.

What Is a Felony in Indiana?

A felony is a more serious offense and can result in prison time, not just local jail. Felonies in Indiana are broken into six levels, with Level 1 being the most serious (excluding murder, which is in a category of its own).

Here’s a quick overview:

• Level 6 Felony: Lowest level felony—punishable by 6 months to 2.5 years in prison. Common for repeat theft, OWI with priors, or low-level drug possession.

• Level 5 Felony: 1 to 6 years in prison. Includes offenses like battery causing serious injury or criminal recklessness.

• Level 4 to Level 1 Felonies: Involve increasing levels of violence or harm. A Level 1 Felony can carry up to 40 years in prison.

• Murder: Classified separately. Punishable by 45 to 65 years, life without parole, or the death penalty.

A felony conviction can strip you of your right to vote (while incarcerated), carry a firearm, serve on a jury, and can seriously limit employment, housing, and educational opportunities.

Collateral Consequences: More Than Just Jail Time

One of the biggest differences between felonies and misdemeanors isn’t just the potential sentence—it’s the long-term impact.

Felony convictions can:

• Disqualify you from federal student loans

• Prevent you from obtaining professional licenses

• Lead to child custody complications

• Subject you to immigration consequences if you are not a U.S. citizen

Even misdemeanors can have lasting consequences, which is why it’s so important to work with a qualified defense attorney who understands how to challenge the charges or seek diversion, dismissal, or expungement.

Can a Felony Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor in Indiana?

Yes. In some cases, Level 6 felonies can be reduced to misdemeanors either as part of a plea deal or after successful completion of probation, under Indiana Code § 35-50-2-7. This is called “misdemeanor sentencing,” and it can help reduce the long-term damage of a felony charge.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge, both require serious attention. Don’t assume that a misdemeanor is "no big deal," and don’t panic if you’re facing a felony—you have legal options.

At Pathway Legal Group, we represent clients across Indiana with aggressive, experienced, and trial-ready defense. We understand the difference between a bad moment and a criminal future—and we fight to make sure one doesn't turn into the other.

Facing a criminal charge in Indiana? Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s talk about your defense options.