At Fienman Defense, we understand the devastating impact these charges can have upon you and your family. If you are facing a third-degree felony charge in Pennsylvania, you need a seasoned advocate who knows the steps to take in order to build a robust defense on your behalf. Third-degree felony lawyer Michael Fienman can do just that. To schedule a free, no obligation consultation about your case, call us today at (215) 839-9529, or fill out our convenient contact form.
Third Degree Felony Penalties and Offenses in Pennsylvania
A third-degree felony conviction in PA carries the following possible penalties:
- Prison sentence up to seven years
- Fines reaching $15,000
However, some examples of third-degree felonies in Pennsylvania include:
- Arson (under particular circumstances, including when the value of the property, unoccupied building, motor vehicle, or airplane put in danger of damage or destruction exceeds $5,000)
- Arson (possessing, manufacturing, or transporting explosive or incendiary material or devices)
- Agricultural vandalism (when the perpetrator intentionally causes a loss of more than $5,000)
- Institutional vandalism (when the perpetrator intentionally causes a loss of more than $5,000)
- Access device fraud (when the stolen item is valued at more than $500)
- Identity theft (when the value of items taken is more than $2,000)
- Insurance fraud
- Trademark counterfeiting – second offense (when you have 100 to 1000 counterfeit marked items, or the retail value is $2,000 to $10,000)
- Carrying a firearm without a license
- Interfering with custody of children (when you are a parent and you took the child without custody or visitation rights)
- Perjury
- Child pornography (first offense)
- Unlawful contact with a minor
- Failure to register as a sex offender (based on the severity of the conviction and years required to register)
- Obscene and other sexual material and performances
- Theft when the items are valued at more than $2,000
- Writing a bad check (where the check or order is $75,000 or more)
- Forging legal documents such as a will or deed
- Receiving stolen property valued at more than $2,000
- Robbery (with use of force, but no injury inflicted)
Grading a Third Degree Felony Sentence in Pennsylvania
Just as with other crimes in Pennsylvania, judges in the Commonwealth issue sentences for third-degree felonies using particular factors set forth by the Pennsylvania Sentencing Guidelines. These include the Offense Gravity Score (OGS) and the Prior Record Score (PRS).
The OGS and PRS are numerical values that are combined together to help judges find sentencing ranges to follow for particular crimes. The OGS measures the seriousness of the crime committed. The PRS is an indication of the individual’s previous criminal record. Judges in Pennsylvania also have discretion to change the prescribed sentence when other aggravating or mitigating factors are present.
Particular aggravating circumstances that may elevate the sentences imposed by Pennsylvania judges for felony crimes include:
- Crimes committed in association with a criminal gang
- Crimes involving the sexual abuse of children
- Particular crimes of arson
Mandatory Minimum Felony Sentences
Certain felony crimes in Pennsylvania must be sentenced according to mandatory minimums designated under the law. Among the type of crimes that fall into this category include those involving certain offenses against children and specific crimes of violence.
Pennsylvania Statute of Limitations and Felony Charges
Charges on a criminal felony must be filed in Pennsylvania prior to the Commonwealth’s statute of limitations. Other than those crimes that do not have a statute of limitations, the statute of limitations can vary based on the nature of the crime. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for felony-level offenses range anywhere from two to 12 years.
Strong Defense Against Third Degree Felony Charges
At Fienman Defense, we can utilize our resources to investigate the circumstances surrounding your felony charge, reconstruct the evidence and facts, and develop the most effective defense strategy possible. With intricate knowledge of the prosecution’s mindset and tactics, we will work vigorously to establish reasonable doubt in your case and fight for the removal of the charges and penalties against you.
Contact an Experienced Third Degree Felony Lawyer in Pennsylvania
Third-degree felonies are prosecuted vigorously within the Pennsylvania justice system. These charges must be taken seriously, as any conviction can carry significant consequences for your life and future. You can count on attorney Michael Fienman of Fienman Defense to lay the groundwork for a strong defense on your behalf. To set up a free, initial case evaluation, call us today at (215) 839-9529, or send us a message through our contact form.