Felony in Maryland
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Maryland defines felonies as crimes punishable by more than one year imprisonment, following the standard federal definition.
How Maryland treats Felony
Maryland classifies felonies into various categories with specific sentencing ranges established by statute. The state uses an indeterminate sentencing system where judges impose sentences within statutory ranges, and parole eligibility depends on the specific crime and sentence imposed. Maryland recognizes repeat offender enhancements that can increase sentences for defendants with prior felony convictions.
The general definition of Felony
A serious crime punishable by more than one year in prison or death.
A felony is the most serious category of crime in the US criminal system. The key distinction is punishment: if a conviction can result in more than one year of imprisonment, it's a felony. Felonies include crimes like murder, rape, robbery, and drug trafficking. A felony conviction carries long-term consequences, including loss of voting rights, gun ownership restrictions, and difficulty finding employment.
Read the full Felony entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.