Guide to Felony Classifications in North Carolina

Jan 31, 2025

By Patrick Roberts Law – Serving Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, NC

When facing felony charges in North Carolina, understanding the classification system is essential. North Carolina law categorizes felonies into ten different classes, ranging from Class A felonies (the most serious) to Class I felonies (the least severe). Each classification carries different penalties, from probation and fines to life in prison.

At Patrick Roberts Law, we provide skilled criminal defense representation for clients facing felony charges in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, NC. Whether you’re dealing with a Class A violent felony or a Class I white-collar offense, we’re prepared to fight for your rights and best outcome. Below you can discover felony classifications in North Carolina, examples of crimes for each, as well as additional considerations that are helpful to know if you or a loved one has been charged with a felony in Wake or Durham County.

Felony Classifications in North Carolina:

Felony Class	Examples of Crimes
Class A (Most Severe)	First-degree murder
Class B1	Second-degree murder, first-degree sexual offense
Class B2	Voluntary manslaughter, drug trafficking (large amounts)
Class C	Assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, armed robbery
Class D	First-degree arson, voluntary manslaughter
Class E	Assault inflicting serious bodily injury, habitual breaking and entering
Class F	Involuntary manslaughter, sexual offenses with minors
Class G	Second-degree burglary, identity theft
Class H	Larceny over $1,000, embezzlement, possession of stolen goods
Class I (Least Severe)	Forgery, possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute

Additional Considerations & Eligibilities for Felony Convictions in North Carolina

Felony Class	Typical Sentence Range	Parole Eligibility	Expungement?
Class A	Life without parole or death penalty	No parole	Not eligible
Class B1	25 years to life	Limited eligibility	Not eligible
Class B2	Up to 40 years	Possible parole after 15-20 years	Not eligible
Class C	44 to 182 months	Parole possible	Not eligible
Class D	38 to 160 months	Parole after 50% of sentence served	Not eligible
Class E	15 to 63 months	Parole eligibility varies	Not eligible
Class F	10 to 41 months	Parole possible	Not eligible
Class G	8 to 31 months	Parole likely	Possible after 10 years
Class H	4 to 25 months	Parole likely	Possible after 5-10 years
Class I	3 to 12 months	Parole likely	Possible after 5 years

Factors That Affect Felony Sentencing in North Carolina

Prior Criminal Record: North Carolina courts consider prior convictions when determining sentencing. The Structured Sentencing System categorizes prior convictions into different levels, which can increase or reduce penalties.
Aggravating and Mitigating Factors: Judges may increase or reduce sentencing based on factors such as:

Use of a deadly weapon
Injury to the victim
Cooperation with law enforcement
Lack of prior criminal history

3. Plea Deals and Reduced Charges: In many cases, an experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate a plea deal, potentially reducing a felony charge to a misdemeanor or securing a more lenient sentence.

Felony Defense in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill

If you are facing felony charges in Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill, it is crucial to seek legal representation immediately. A felony conviction can impact your career, housing, and personal freedoms.

Patrick Roberts handles cases involving:

Drug felonies
Violent crimes
Theft and property crimes
White-collar crimes
Sex offenses
Homicide and manslaughter

Contact a Felony Defense Lawyer in Raleigh-Durham, NC

Arrested and charged with a felony in Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill? Contact Patrick Roberts Law for a free case evaluation. He will review your case, explain your legal options, and develop a strong defense strategy to protect your future.

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