DPS Law Enforcement Officer’s Certification Examination (LEOCE) Practice Exam

Which degree of felony carries the lightest maximum penalty?

First-degree felony Second-degree felony Third-degree felony Fourth-degree felony

Correct Answer:

Fourth-degree felony

Explanation:

In criminal law, felonies are graded from most to least severe, and the statutory maximum penalty rises with the degree. The lower the degree, the smaller the maximum punishment. So the lightest maximum penalty comes with the lowest-grade felony, typically the fourth-degree felony. The higher degrees—first, second, and third—carry higher maximum penalties, which is why they don’t fit as the lightest option.

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