Can I Get My Level 6 Felony Reduced to a Misdemeanor in Indiana?
Zach Baber • July 31, 2025
A Level 6 felony is the lowest felony level in Indiana, but it can still carry serious consequences, from jail time to long-term barriers with employment, housing, and more.
If you’ve been convicted of a Level 6 felony, or you’re facing one, you might be asking:
What Is a Level 6 Felony?
But Indiana law gives judges some flexibility, especially when it comes to alternative sentencing and reclassification.
What Is Misdemeanor Conversion?
It allows a Level 6 felony to be treated like a misdemeanor either:
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- Can it be reduced to a misdemeanor?
The short answer: Yes, in many cases, it can.
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Level 6 Felony?
In Indiana, Level 6 felonies
include offenses like theft, battery, possession of a controlled substance, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) with prior offenses.
Penalties range from 6 months to 2.5 years in jail, and fines up to $10,000.
But Indiana law gives judges some flexibility, especially when it comes to alternative sentencing and reclassification.
What Is Misdemeanor Conversion?
Under Indiana law, courts may enter a judgment of conviction as a Class A misdemeanor instead of a felony in certain cases.
This process is called misdemeanor conversion or alternative misdemeanor sentencing (AMS).
It allows a Level 6 felony to be treated like a misdemeanor either:
- At the time of sentencing, or
- After completion of probation, if the defendant successfully complies with all terms.
To reduce a Level 6 felony to a misdemeanor in Indiana, typically:
- The felony must not be one that is excluded by law (e.g., sex or violent offenses).
- The court must find that converting the charge serves the interests of justice.
- The defendant must not be a habitual offender.
- The person must have completed all probation or executed sentence requirements without violations.
Getting your felony reduced to a misdemeanor can:
- Restore job and housing opportunities (see how criminal records affect employment opportunities).
- Reduce social stigma.
- Improve your chances for expungement in the future.
- Make you eligible for more licenses or certifications.
Every case is different.
You’ll want to speak with a criminal defense attorney who understands local Indiana court practices, especially in counties like Whitley, Allen, Kosciusko, Noble, and Huntington.
At Baber & Baber, P.C., we regularly help people navigate felony charges, seek conversions, and get second chances.
If you're wondering whether your Level 6 felony can be reduced, don’t wait.
๐ Call us at (260) 244-4422 or
๐ป Visit us online to schedule a consultation.
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