Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

A level 2 felony is an extremely serious criminal offense, ranking just below the highest level of felonies in most state sentencing systems. In Kansas and many other states, level 1 felonies include crimes such as first-degree murder or aggravated kidnapping, while level 2 felonies cover other violent and life-threatening crimes like voluntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, or large-scale drug trafficking. Conviction for a level 2 felony often results in long prison sentences, high fines, and lasting personal consequences.

Where A Level 2 Felony Ranks In Severity

In the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines, felonies are divided into 10 severity levels, 1 being the most serious and 10 the least. A level 2 felony sits just one step below the top, meaning it carries very harsh penalties. Crimes in this category usually involve significant harm to others, use of weapons, or large-scale criminal activity. Because of this, judges have limited flexibility, and probation or community service is rarely granted for level 2 offenses.

Common Examples Of Level 2 Felonies

Level 2 felonies typically involve acts of extreme violence, danger to human life, or significant financial or societal impact. Some common examples include:

• Voluntary manslaughter – Killing another person intentionally but without premeditation, such as during a sudden quarrel or in the heat of passion.
• Aggravated robbery – Committing a robbery while armed with a deadly weapon or inflicting bodily harm on the victim.
• Aggravated criminal sodomy – Engaging in a sexual act with a victim under coercive or violent circumstances.
• Drug distribution or trafficking – Large-scale manufacturing, sale, or distribution of controlled substances, often involving organized operations.

Possible Prison Sentences & Fines

A conviction for a level 2 felony in Kansas carries a prison sentence ranging from 9 to 41 years, depending on the defendant’s criminal history score. Judges use the state’s sentencing grid to determine the exact penalty. For defendants with multiple prior convictions, the sentence will fall on the higher end of the range. In addition to incarceration, courts can impose fines up to $500,000, especially in drug-related cases.

Level 2 felonies are not eligible for probation in most situations. Yet, in rare cases, a judge may issue a “downward departure” sentence, allowing for reduced time or supervised release if the defendant shows exceptional mitigating circumstances, such as cooperation with law enforcement or evidence of rehabilitation.

Collateral Consequences Of A Level 2 Felony

Beyond prison time, a level 2 felony conviction leads to lifelong consequences. Offenders lose the right to vote, possess firearms, and hold certain professional licenses. The felony record also limits employment opportunities, restricts housing access, and affects credit eligibility. In many cases, the conviction remains permanent unless the law allows for eventual expungement, which is rare for violent or sexual crimes.

Why Level 2 Felonies Are Treated So Harshly

Level 2 felonies represent some of the most dangerous crimes short of murder or capital offenses. These crimes involve deliberate harm, violence, or large-scale criminal activity that puts others’ lives at risk. The state’s goal is to protect the public by imposing long sentences that both punish and deter future offenses. Because of the potential danger associated with level 2 crimes, prosecutors pursue them aggressively, and judges rarely grant leniency.