Felony Defense in Oahu

Hawaii Felony Classes & Potential Penalties

Hawaii classifies most felonies as class A, class B, or class C offenses. First-degree murder, second-degree murder, and attempted murder are treated separately. The charge’s classification establishes the statutory sentencing range, but the potential consequences can also depend on offense-specific laws and alleged enhancements.

General felony sentencing ranges include:

• Class A felonies: An indeterminate 20-year imprisonment term, generally without suspension of sentence or probation, subject to limited statutory exceptions.
• Class B felonies: A potential imprisonment term of up to 10 years.
• Class C felonies: A potential imprisonment term of up to five years.
• Felony fines: Maximum fines generally range from $10,000 to $50,000 by class unless a specific statute provides a different amount.

Hawaii uses indeterminate sentencing for many felony offenses. Under this model, the sentencing judge imposes the statutory maximum, and the Hawaii Paroling Authority determines the minimum period that must be served before parole eligibility. A maximum penalty describes the statutory limit, not the expected result in every case.

Misdemeanor cases on Oahu are generally set in Honolulu District Court, known as Kauikeaouli Hale, rather than First Circuit Court. Whether a charge remains a felony or is reduced affects both where it’s handled and the range of possible consequences.

Deferred Pleas, Probation & Sentence Enhancements

Some first-time defendants charged with eligible nonviolent felonies may qualify for a Deferred Acceptance of a Guilty Plea. This disposition allows the court to defer acceptance of the plea while the defendant completes court-ordered conditions. Successful completion may lead to dismissal of the charge without a conviction, but eligibility and approval depend on the offense, facts, criminal history, and applicable Hawaii law.

I can pursue a Deferred Acceptance of a Guilty Plea when the case and statute permit it. I also defend against felony sentence enhancements and mandatory minimum allegations involving weapons or prior convictions. Hawaii law permits mandatory minimum sentences in certain cases involving firearms, vulnerable victims, or drug trafficking, so the specific allegations require careful review.

Extended imprisonment terms may apply in specified circumstances involving:

• Repeat offenses
• Violent or sexual offenses
• Hate crimes
• Hit-and-run conduct

Felony probation is generally unavailable for class A felonies, repeat offenders, and felony firearm offenders. A felony conviction can also affect firearm rights under Hawaii and federal law.

Sentencing exposure can’t be determined from the felony class alone. The exact statute, criminal history, enhancement notices, and available resolutions all influence the analysis.