What is a class 1 felony
Most states in the United States classify crimes as either misdemeanors or felonies. Felonies are typically more serious infractions of the law than misdemeanors. Felons, or those who have been convicted of felonious crimes, automatically lose certain rights as United States citizens, regardless of the classification of the felony. Not every state has a class 1 felony designation. Definition and penalties for a class 1 felony conviction vary from state to state. A class 1 felony designation is typically the most serious felony in the states where this designation is used. For example, conviction of a class 1 felony in Arizona can result in a sentence of 25 years to life in prison. In addition, the death penalty is an option if the crime committed was a murder. Punishment for a class 1 felony committed in Virginia can be life in prison, the death penalty and/or a fine up to $100,000 US Dollars (USD).