Understanding Felonies in Oregon: Classifications and Consequences

Oregon's most serious felonies can lead to 20-year prison sentences and $375,000 in fines. The state defines felonies as criminal offenses with penalties lasting more than a year in prison. This is a big deal as it means that they are more severe than misdemeanors. Understanding the classification of felonies and the various levels of felonies is crucial for anyone navigating the criminal justice system in Oregon.

The state's felony system has three main categories: Class A, B, and C. Each class comes with different maximum sentences. Class C felonies carry up to 5 years, while Class A felonies can result in 20-year sentences. Some unclassified felonies like aggravated murder carry life imprisonment or death penalty sentences. Knowledge of these classifications is vital for anyone facing charges or learning about Oregon's criminal justice system. It's important to note that while Oregon has its own system, federal felony classes and sentencing differ.

Understanding Oregon's Felony Classification System

Oregon groups serious crimes into a well-laid-out felony classification system. The state uses four main categories of felonies:

• Class A felonies: Maximum 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $375,000
• Class B felonies: Maximum 10 years imprisonment and fines up to $250,000
• Class C felonies: Maximum 5 years imprisonment and fines up to $125,000
• Unclassified felonies: Customized penalties based on specific statutes

What Makes a Crime a Felony in Oregon

Oregon considers a crime a felony when possible prison time goes beyond one year. Each felony class shows how serious the crime is and what penalties it carries. Oregon's Criminal Code clearly states which crimes belong to each felony class. This system of how felonies are classified helps determine the offense severity and appropriate sentencing ranges.

Recent Changes to Felony Laws (2023-2024)

Oregon's legislature made several key changes to felony laws. House Bill 2772 created two new felony classes for domestic terrorism. These focus on crimes that damage critical infrastructure or use toxic substances. Senate Bill 340 made organized retail theft penalties tougher by adding them to the repeat property offender statute.

House Bill 2316 brought one more big change to felony DUII laws. This law now includes the influence of any drugs that impair driving. This legislation wants to handle repeat offenders better while keeping treatment consistent across all statutes. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to align Oregon's criminal statutes with federal criminal law and address evolving societal concerns.

Class A Felonies: Oregon's Most Serious Offenses

Oregon's justice system ranks first-degree murder, rape, and kidnapping among its most serious criminal offenses. When considering what are Class A felonies, it's important to note that they can result in maximum prison terms of 20 years and fines up to $375,000.

Common Class A Felony Charges

Several serious offenses fall under Class A felonies in the state:

• First-degree murder
• First-degree assault
• First-degree rape
• First-degree arson
• First-degree kidnapping

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

The 1994 Ballot Measure 11 created strict mandatory minimum sentences for violent crimes. This measure requires 100 months in prison for first-degree rape, 90 months for first-degree assault, and 300 months for first-degree murder.

These sentences apply regardless of what the offender's criminal history might be. To name just one example, someone convicted of first-degree rape must serve 100 months in prison, even without prior felony convictions.

Impact of Measure 11 on Class A Penalties

Measure 11 changed sentencing practices for Class A felonies completely. Judges used to have more discretion to determine sentences based on individual circumstances before this measure. Offenders can't reduce their sentences now, even with good behavior.

The measure continues to affect Oregon's prison population significantly and accounts for 41% of prison population growth. The law requires adult prosecution for juveniles 15 and older when they commit these serious offenses.

The measure's influence goes beyond just sentencing. Prosecutors have gained more power to determine case outcomes through plea negotiations. Recent data reveals that Multnomah County convicts 36% of Measure 11 indicted offenders for Measure 11 crimes, while Marion County's rate reaches 63%.

Class B and C Felony Breakdown

The Oregon Criminal Justice Commission uses a structured sentencing grid to set guidelines for Class B and C felonies. This system looks at criminal history and how serious the crime is to decide the right penalties. Understanding what are Class B felonies and how they differ from Class C is crucial for comprehending Oregon's felony classes explained.

Class B Felony Examples and Sentences

Class B felonies can put you behind bars for up to 10 years with fines reaching $250,000. These felonies include:

• Second-degree manslaughter
• Second-degree assault
• Second-degree robbery
• Extortion
• Aggravated theft

What is a Class C Felony in Oregon

Class C felonies are the least severe category, with prison terms up to 5 years and fines up to $125,000. These offenses often let offenders serve probation or do community service instead. Class C felonies include:

• First-degree theft
• Second-degree burglary
• Third-degree assault
• Identity theft
• Criminal mischief

Property Crimes vs. Person Crimes

Oregon makes a clear distinction between crimes against property and crimes against persons. Property crimes aim to get money or benefits through burglary, theft, and vandalism. Crimes against persons cause direct harm to people, like assault offenses.

Measure 57's Effect on Property Crime Sentences

Measure 57 changed property crime sentencing dramatically. Under Oregon Measure 57, the sentencing range for repeat property offenders varies based on the severity of the crime and the offender's criminal history. Presumptive sentences of 13, 18, or 24 months incarceration can be longer if the offender has prior convictions for similar crimes

Navigating a Felony Charge

Taking quick action to protect your legal interests is vital after a felony arrest in Oregon. The criminal justice process starts right after your arrest, and you must follow several mandatory steps and deadlines. Understanding how felonies are classified and the associated criminal penalties is crucial for anyone facing such charges.

First Steps After Being Charged

You must attend an arraignment within 36 hours if you're in custody, excluding holidays, Saturdays and Sundays. The court will present the charges and set bail conditions during this hearing. Don't discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Remember that jail staff record all phone calls and visits, which can become evidence against you.

You need a lawyer right away. The court will give you one if you can't afford legal representation, but you must fill out a financial affidavit honestly under penalty of perjury. While waiting for your lawyer, keep detailed records of the whole ordeal, including:

• Names of potential witnesses
• Timeline of events
• Relevant documents and evidence
• Court dates and check-in requirements

Your Legal Rights During Prosecution

The Oregon Constitution gives you specific rights throughout criminal proceedings. You have the right to stay silent and refuse police questioning without a lawyer present. 

The prosecution must give you all evidence they have against you, even evidence that helps your case. This means police reports, witness statements, lab results, and body camera footage.

You can ask for copies of all court proceedings transcripts before trial. You have the right to a public trial by an impartial jury unless you waive it in writing. The prosecution must prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt, and no one can force you to testify against yourself.

Victims have specific rights during key stages of proceedings. They must know about court dates and have a chance to speak at sentencing hearings. Of course, this affects how your case moves through the system, as courts must think over victim interests when scheduling and discussing plea deals.

Conclusion

Oregon treats felony charges with extreme severity. Penalties range from 5 years to life behind bars, and fines can reach $375,000. Over the last several years, new laws have altered the map of criminal justice in the state. These changes especially affect drug-related cases and how domestic terrorism gets classified.

Class A felony cases face substantial pressure from Measure 11's mandatory minimum sentences. Measure 57 still shapes how courts handle property crimes. Defendants often struggle with these complex legal rules and requirements.

Your rights matter most if you face felony charges. The justice system protects you with specific rights like staying silent and seeing evidence. Yet you need to watch every deadline and follow each procedure carefully during prosecution.

A skilled attorney can protect your interests as your case moves through the courts. Prodigal Law's criminal defense team offers free case evaluations to review your situation and lay out your choices. Our experienced attorneys will protect your rights and create a solid defense plan.

FAQs

Q: What are the maximum penalties for a Class A felony in Oregon? Class A felonies in Oregon can result in up to 20 years of imprisonment and fines reaching $375,000. These are the most serious offenses in the state's criminal justice system.

Q: How does Oregon classify felonies? Oregon classifies felonies into three main categories: Class A, B, and C. Each class carries different maximum sentences, ranging from 5 years for Class C felonies to 20 years for Class A felonies. There are also unclassified felonies with customized penalties.

Q: What distinguishes a Class C felony from other felony classes in Oregon? Class C felonies are the least severe category of felonies in Oregon. They carry a maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and fines up to $125,000. Often, these offenses allow for probation or community service options.

Q: How has Measure 11 impacted sentencing for serious felonies in Oregon? Measure 11 established mandatory minimum sentences for violent crimes in Oregon. For example, first-degree rape carries a mandatory 100-month prison term, regardless of the offender's prior criminal history. This measure has significantly reduced judicial discretion in sentencing for serious felonies.

Q: What are some important rights of individuals facing felony charges in Oregon? Individuals charged with felonies in Oregon have several crucial rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to a public trial by an impartial jury. They also have the right to access all evidence gathered against them, even if it supports their case.