Misdemeanor vs. Felony in Nevada: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
Max Stovall • July 10, 2025

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in Nevada, one of the first questions that comes up is whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony — and what that actually means.


The difference isn’t just about legal definitions. It impacts everything: the potential penalties, how the case is handled in court, what kind of criminal record you’ll have, and how your future could be affected. Whether your case is in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, understanding this distinction is key to knowing your rights and making informed decisions.


Let’s break it down.



What Is a Misdemeanor in Nevada?


A misdemeanor is considered a less serious offense, but that doesn’t mean the consequences are minor. Common misdemeanor charges in Nevada include:


  • Petty theft or shoplifting (under $1,200)
  • Trespassing
  • First-time DUI (without injury)
  • Simple battery or assault
  • Vandalism
  • Possession of small amounts of controlled substances


In most cases, a misdemeanor is punishable by up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $1,000, and other penalties like community service, mandatory classes, or probation. These cases are typically handled in municipal or justice courts, such as East Fork Justice Court in Douglas County or Reno Justice Court in Washoe County.


Even though jail time is possible, many first-time offenders may be eligible for alternative sentencing, diversion programs, or suspended sentences — especially if they have a good attorney advocating for them.




What Is a Felony in Nevada?


A felony is a more serious offense under Nevada law and carries significantly harsher penalties. Felony charges include:


  • Drug trafficking
  • Domestic violence with prior convictions
  • Assault with a deadly weapon
  • Grand larceny (theft over $1,200)
  • Robbery
  • Sexual offenses
  • Homicide


Felonies are categorized into five classes (A–E), with Category A felonies (like murder) being the most severe, potentially resulting in life in prison or even the death penalty. Lower-level felonies (Category D or E) may carry a sentence of 1–4 years in prison but still result in a permanent felony record.


Felony cases are handled in district courts — for instance, Douglas County District Court in Minden or Second Judicial District Court in Reno.


A felony conviction can impact your right to vote, own firearms, get certain jobs or licenses, and even find housing. That’s why felony charges require a strategic and aggressive legal defense — even if it’s your first offense.


Why the Difference Matters


The classification of your charge as a misdemeanor or felony affects more than just the penalties — it affects how the case is handled, how your record is treated, and how much leverage you have during plea negotiations.


For example:


  • A felony may not be eligible for record sealing for many years — if at all
  • A misdemeanor may be sealed much sooner, sometimes just a year after the case closes
  • Judges and prosecutors approach felonies with more scrutiny
  • Felony convictions come with collateral consequences like losing civil rights


It’s also not uncommon for some offenses to be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the facts of the case. This is known as a “wobbler” offense — and it’s one of many reasons why having an experienced defense attorney can make a big difference. The right lawyer may be able to get charges reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor or argue for alternative sentencing options that preserve your future.


Don’t Make Assumptions — Get Legal Help Early


Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere in Nevada, it’s a mistake to assume that one is “not a big deal.” Any criminal charge can follow you for years if it’s not handled correctly.


At Max Stovall Law, we help clients navigate both misdemeanor and felony cases with clarity, strategy, and strength. We’ve worked in the local courts, we know the prosecutors, and we understand how to advocate for the best possible outcome — whether that means getting charges reduced, negotiating alternatives to jail, or fighting the case in court.


If you’ve been charged — or are under investigation — don’t wait.


Contact Max Stovall Law today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand what you’re facing and what steps to take next to protect your record and your future.

Understanding Your Miranda Rights in Nevada

By Max Stovall • July 11, 2025
If you’ve ever watched a crime drama on TV, you’ve probably heard the famous line: “You have the right to remain silent…” But in the real world — especially if you’ve been arrested or questioned by law enforcement — understanding what your Miranda rights actually mean can make or break your case. Whether you’re facing charges in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Nevada, it’s crucial to know your rights — and how to use them wisely. What Are Miranda Rights? Miranda rights come from the 1966 U.S. Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona. The ruling requires police to inform you of specific constitutional rights before conducting a custodial interrogation — that is, questioning you while you’re in police custody. These rights include: The right to remain silent The right to an attorney The warning that anything you say can be used against you in court The right to have an attorney appointed if you can’t afford one These protections stem from the Fifth Amendment (protection against self-incrimination) and the Sixth Amendment (right to legal counsel). When Do Miranda Rights Apply in Nevada? Here’s a common misconception: police are not required to read you your Miranda rights at the time of arrest. In Nevada, your rights only need to be read if: You are in custody, and Law enforcement intends to question you So, if you’re arrested but not questioned, Miranda may not apply. Likewise, if you’re being questioned but are not technically in custody (for example, during a voluntary interview), your statements may still be admissible even if no rights were read. This gray area is where people often get tripped up — and why having a lawyer involved early matters. What Happens If Police Don’t Read You Your Rights? If you’re interrogated while in custody and your Miranda rights weren’t read, any statements you made may be considered inadmissible in court. That means the prosecutor can’t use them against you — and in some cases, it may lead to charges being reduced or dismissed. However, this does not mean your entire case is thrown out. The charges can still stand if there’s other evidence against you — like physical evidence, witness testimony, or surveillance footage. That’s why it’s so important to invoke your rights — and use them — from the moment you’re detained. How to Use Your Rights Effectively Knowing your rights is one thing. Using them wisely is another. If you’re stopped, questioned, or arrested in Nevada, here’s what to do: Say clearly and calmly: “I’m invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak to an attorney.” Stop talking immediately. Even casual or offhand remarks can be used against you. Do not try to explain or justify yourself. That’s what your lawyer is for. Be respectful, but firm. You’re not required to answer questions, even if officers pressure you. This applies whether you’re in downtown Reno, at a traffic stop in Minden, or sitting in an interview room anywhere in the state. Miranda Rights Are a Tool — But Not a Loophole It’s important to understand that Miranda rights are not a “get out of jail free” card. They are there to protect you from coercion and help level the playing field between you and law enforcement. But if you waive those rights — either by speaking freely or answering questions — you may unknowingly harm your own case. That’s why having an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential. Your lawyer can challenge improper questioning, suppress statements made without proper Miranda warnings, and protect your constitutional rights at every stage of the process. Charged or Questioned in Northern Nevada? Don’t Go It Alone. At Max Stovall Law, we help clients across Douglas County, Washoe County, and greater Northern Nevada understand and assert their legal rights. Whether you’ve already been charged or you’ve just been contacted by police, we can step in, defend your rights, and help you make informed decisions from day one. Contact us today for a free consultation . We’ll walk you through what’s happened, what your options are, and how we can help protect your future — starting now.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a First Offense in Nevada?

By Max Stovall • June 23, 2025
If you’ve been charged with a crime for the first time — whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony — you might be wondering if it’s worth hiring a lawyer. After all, maybe you’re thinking, “It’s just my first offense… won’t the court go easy on me?” The truth is, even first-time charges in Nevada can carry lasting consequences. Whether you were arrested in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, it’s important to understand how the legal system works — and how quickly things can escalate without proper representation. Here’s what you need to know about why hiring a criminal defense attorney for a first offense is not just smart — it’s essential. First Offenses Are Still Criminal Charges It’s a common misconception that first-time offenders get a “free pass.” While judges may sometimes show leniency to those with clean records, that’s not guaranteed — and it depends heavily on the type of charge, the circumstances, and how the case is presented. Even for something like shoplifting, minor drug possession, or a first-time DUI, you’re facing real consequences: fines, probation, loss of your driver’s license, mandatory classes, or even jail time. A conviction goes on your criminal record, which can affect job applications, housing opportunities, professional licenses, and immigration status. Having a lawyer helps ensure that one mistake doesn’t define your future. What a Lawyer Can Do in a First-Time Case An experienced criminal defense attorney does far more than just show up in court. From the beginning, your lawyer will: Review the details of your arrest to check for violations of your rights (like illegal searches or lack of probable cause) Advise you on how to plead — whether to fight the charge or negotiate for a reduced outcome Speak to the prosecutor on your behalf, often working behind the scenes to resolve the case before it ever goes to trial Pursue diversion programs or deferred sentencing if available, which can help you avoid a conviction altogether Protect you from unknowingly saying or agreeing to something that harms your case In short, your attorney becomes your advocate, your strategist, and your guide through a legal system that can be confusing — and unforgiving — if you try to navigate it alone. Local Knowledge Matters Court procedures and outcomes vary by county and even by judge. An attorney who knows the local courts in Douglas County and Washoe County will understand: How different judges typically sentence first-time offenders What types of plea deals local prosecutors are open to What diversion or alternative programs may be available How to get charges reduced or dismissed based on the court’s tendencies This local knowledge can make a huge difference in the final outcome of your case. Could You Represent Yourself? Technically, yes — you have the right to represent yourself. But in practice, going it alone is risky, even for a first offense. Without legal training, you may not recognize flaws in the state’s case, missing out on opportunities to challenge evidence, negotiate better terms, or avoid a permanent mark on your record. And unfortunately, once you plead guilty or no contest — even if you thought you were just trying to “get it over with” — that decision is difficult to undo. The consequences can follow you for years. Hiring a lawyer is an investment in your future, your reputation, and your peace of mind. Let Max Stovall Law Help You Move Forward At Max Stovall Law , we believe one mistake shouldn’t derail your life. We’ve helped first-time clients across Northern Nevada — from Reno to Minden — navigate the criminal justice system, protect their records, and find outcomes that allow them to move forward. Whether you’ve been charged with DUI, petty theft, drug possession, or another first-time offense, we’re here to fight for you — with compassion, clarity, and strength. If you’re facing your first criminal charge, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the guidance you need to make smart decisions — from the very first step.