What are different types of convictions in court and what are the penalties?

Answer 1

There are a broad variety of convictions and penalties.

Convictions, broadly speaking, are finding someone guilty of a felony or misdemeanor.

Penalties are the variety of different punishments that may be imposed on the person found guilty.

Penalties fall into several categories. A fine, community service, probation, jail time, prison time, prison time without any possibility of parole, and death by various means.

There are also penalties - or "sentences" - that are suspended. In other words, they are there, but you will not suffer them unless you fail to do other things the judge said to. Those can be whatever the judge wants. A public admission of guilty, or public humiliation, etc. You have the choice to do them, or take another sentence, usually worse.

All these penalties can be mixed and matched, too. And there are additional extra-judicial penalties, things that occur that were not imposed by the Judge, but happen as a consequence of the penalties. Such as having to register as a sex offender, or having to check the box on the employment application saying you are a convict, or some of the harsher aspects of prison life.

If you are concerned about a specific conviction and penalty, you may consult with a local attorney who will be better able to assist your particular case.