Crimes Categorized

Crimes in Utah are classified into three categories: felonies, misdemeanors and infractions. To determine what category a crime falls into, you'll need to look at the law in the Utah Code (if state law), or the appropriate city or county code. Most criminal statutes specify how the crime is classified.

Felonies

A felony is a major crime which can be punished with imprisonment and/or a fine. There are four categories of felonies.

Degree Possible Prison Term Possible Fine

Capital Life in prison, life in prison without parole, or death

First Degree Five years to life in prison Up to $10,000

Second Degree One to 15 years in prison Up to $10,000

Third Degree Zero to five years in prison Up to $5,000

See Utah Code §76-3-203 and §76-3-301

Misdemeanors

A misdemeanor is an offense lower than a felony which can be punished with a county jail term of up to one year and/or a fine. Many city and county ordinances and some state laws are misdemeanors. There are three categories of misdemeanors.

Class Possible Jail Term Possible Fine

Class A Up to one year in jail Up to $2,500

Class B Up to six months in jail Up to $1,000

Class C Up to 90 days in jail Up to $750

See Utah Code §76-3-204 and §76-3-301

Infractions

An infraction is a minor offense punishable by a fine only, up to $750. Examples include city traffic violations and some disorderly conduct offenses.