Felony charges in North Carolina are serious offenses that can carry life-altering consequences. Whether you are under investigation or have already been charged, it is critical to understand what consequences you are facing and how to fight back. At Denninger & Philbeck, we provide aggressive and strategic defense for clients charged with felonies across western North Carolina.

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What is a Felony in North Carolina?

Felonies are the most serious category of crime you can be charged with under North Carolina law. Felony crimes are prosecuted in Superior Court and can result in lengthy prison sentences, the loss of certain rights, and permanent damage to your reputation and livelihood.

Felony charges cover a wide range of conduct, including, but not limited to:

• Violent crimes: Homicide (murder and manslaughter), robbery, serious assaults
• Drug offenses: Trafficking, manufacturing, or possession with intent to sell or deliver controlled substances
• Property crimes: Burglary, arson, or larceny
• Sex offenses: Rape, statutory and forcible sex offense, taking indecent liberties with a child
• White collar crimes: Embezzlement, fraud, forgery, obtaining property by false pretenses

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Felony Classes and Sentencing

North Carolina classifies felonies from Class A (most serious) to Class I (least serious). Punishment depends on the severity of the crime and your prior criminal record level, which is determined by points assigned to your criminal history. (The grid below is for felony crimes committed on or after 10/1/2013. Maximum punishments are different for reportable sex offenses and drug trafficking.)

Felony Class	Example Offense(s)	Maximum Punishment
Class A	First-degree murder	Death* or life imprisonment without parole. *Minors under 18 cannot be sentenced to death.
Class B1	First-degree rape, Statutory Rape of a Child by an Adult	Life imprisonment (with or without parole)
Class B2	Second-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder	Up to 484 months (approx. 40 years)
Class C	Second-degree rape, First-degree kidnapping	Up to 231 months (approx. 19 years)
Class D	Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon, Voluntary Manslaughter, First-degree burglary	Up to 204 months (approx. 17 years)
Class E	Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill	Up to 88 months (approx. 7 years)
Class F	Involuntary Manslaughter, Habitual Impaired Driving, Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child	Up to 59 months (approx. 5 years)
Class G	Common Law Robbery, Possession of Firearm by Felon, Identity Theft	Up to 47 months (approx. 4 years)
Class H	Felony Larceny, Embezzlement, Breaking and Entering, Possession of Stolen Goods	Up to 39 months (approx. 3 years)
Class I	Possession of Controlled Substances, Credit Card Theft, Breaking or Entering a Motor Vehicle	Up to 24 months (approx. 2 years)

Sentencing is governed by structured sentencing guidelines, which account for your prior record level (I–VI) and the aggravating or mitigating factors in your case. The judge may impose:

• Active punishment: Incarceration in state prison
• Intermediate punishment: Supervised probation with special conditions (e.g., house arrest, treatment, electronic monitoring)
• Community punishment: Unsupervised probation, community service, or fines

Repeat offenders or individuals labeled habitual felons may face enhanced penalties, even for lower-class felonies.

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Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction

Felony convictions can have devastating collateral consequences, even after a sentence is served. These may include:

• Loss right to possess firearms
• Ineligibility for certain jobs or occupational licenses
• Barriers to housing, public benefits, and higher education
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Social stigma and damaged personal reputation
• Loss of child custody or visitation rights

These consequences can last a lifetime and affect nearly every aspect of your future.

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Possible Defenses to Felony Charges

Each felony case is unique. Our attorneys tailor your defense around your needs. We examine the facts of your case, the evidence obtained by the State, and the applicable law. Potential defenses include:

• Lack of intent or knowledge: Especially in white collar and drug-related cases
• Mistaken identity or faulty eyewitnesses: Common in robbery or assault charges
• Illegal search or seizure: Evidence obtained unlawfully may be suppressed
• Self-defense or defense of others: In violent crime allegations
• Duress, entrapment, or mental incapacity
• Negotiated reduction: Some felonies may be reduced to misdemeanors through plea agreements or evidentiary challenges

From pre-indictment investigations to jury trials, we fight to dismiss or reduce your charges and protect your freedom.

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Why You Need a Skilled Felony Defense Lawyer

A felony charge is not something you can afford to take lightly. The criminal justice system is complex, and the prosecution will use every tool at its disposal. You need experienced legal counsel who understands the law, the courts, and the high stakes involved.

At Denninger & Philbeck, we stand with our clients at every stage of the process: from arrest to resolution. Our attorneys are trial-tested, detail-driven, and relentlessly focused on results.

Charged with a felony in North Carolina? Your future is on the line—let us help you protect it. Contact Denninger & Philbeck today for a free, confidential consultation.