Class 4 Felonies in California

December 22, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed

If you’ve heard someone mention a “Class 4 felony” in California, it’s important to know that the state does not classify crimes by numbered “classes” like some other states do. Instead, California’s criminal justice system uses terms such as “felonies,” “wobblers,” “misdemeanors,” and “infractions” to describe the seriousness of a charge and its potential punishment.

That said, people often use the term “Class 4 felony” informally to refer to a mid-level felony offense. These are serious enough to carry prison time, but less severe than crimes like murder and rape.

How Felonies Are Classified in California

Under California Penal Code § 17, a felony is defined as any offense punishable by death, imprisonment in the state prison, or imprisonment in a county jail (for certain offenses).

Unlike many other states, California does not assign numbered “classes” to its felony crimes.

Instead, they are categorized in two main ways:

Felonies: Crimes that can only be charged and sentenced as felonies
Wobblers: Crimes that can be charged either as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history

A so-called “Class 4 felony” would most likely fall under the wobbler category.

Examples of Mid-Level Felony Offenses

Many California crimes that people think of as “Class 4 felonies” fall into these middle tiers of seriousness. Some examples include:

Grand theft (Penal Code § 487): Taking property valued at more than $950. This is a wobbler offense that can be charged as a felony
Assault with a deadly weapon (Penal Code § 245): Using a weapon or force likely to cause great bodily injury
Burglary of a commercial building (Penal Code § 459): Entering with intent to commit theft or another felony
Forgery (Penal Code § 470): Falsifying signatures or documents for financial gain
Vehicular manslaughter (Penal Code § 192(c)): Causing death through gross negligence while driving

Each of these crimes can carry serious consequences, but they are not treated at the same level as especially violent felonies like most forms of homicide.

What Are the Penalties for Mid-Level Felonies in California?

The punishment for a felony conviction will depend on various considerations unique to the case, such as the specific crime in question and whether it’s classified as a violent offense.

Generally, mid-level felonies in California could carry any of the following penalties:

State prison sentences ranging from 16 months to 3 years, or longer for certain aggravated cases
Fines of up to $10,000
Probation
Parole
Restitution to any victims of the crime

Judges have some discretion in sentencing, more so for wobbler offenses. In some cases, a defense lawyer can argue for a misdemeanor reduction under Penal Code § 17(b). Doing so can significantly reduce penalties and long-term consequences.

Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction

Beyond prison time or fines, a felony conviction in California can carry lasting effects.

These include:

Loss of firearm rights
Difficulties finding housing and employment
Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Limits on voting rights while incarcerated

These collateral consequences can follow you long after your sentence ends, making it crucial to seek experienced legal representation early in your case.

Contact Our San Jose Criminal Defense Lawyers at Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys for a Confidential Consultation

While California doesn’t have “Class 4 felonies,” understanding where your charge falls within the state’s system is vital to protecting your future. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can review the facts of your case and fight to have your charges dismissed if possible under the law to the best of their ability.

If you’re facing a felony accusation in California, schedule a confidential consultation with Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys today to begin your defense.

For more information, please contact our criminal defense law firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys at the nearest location for a consultation.

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 217-8818

Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500