In Arkansas, legal labels carry lasting consequences—but they don’t always mean what people think they do. A “felon” is someone convicted of a felony. A “convict” is anyone convicted of any crime—felony or misdemeanor. If you’ve only been charged, you are not legally either one, even if you're in jail or awaiting trial.

At Ludwig Law Firm, we help clients understand the real meaning behind these terms, the impact on their rights and records, and the options they have to avoid a lifelong label.

As always - if you have a legal question you want answered in a future blog, submit it via the form on this page. Now, let's dive in!

What’s the Difference Between a Felon, a Convict, and Someone Who's Charged?

• Felon: You’ve been convicted of a felony, which is a serious crime punishable by more than a year in prison.

• Convict: You’ve been convicted of any crime, including misdemeanors.

• Charged: The state has accused you of a crime, but you haven’t been found guilty yet.

Many people wrongly believe that getting arrested or charged means they’re now a felon or convict. That’s not true—you’re innocent until proven guilty, and we fight to keep it that way.

Can You Be a Felon Without Being Convicted?

No. You must be convicted of a felony in court to legally be considered a felon. However, some people feel branded as one even if their case ends in:

• Deferred adjudication

• Dismissal

• Nolle prosequi (prosecutor drops the case)

That’s why we aggressively pursue outcomes that keep our clients from ever being legally labeled a felon—because perception often sticks, even when the law says otherwise.

What Is Deferred Adjudication in Arkansas?

Deferred adjudication is a type of plea deal where:

1. You plead guilty or no contest

2. The judge withholds a finding of guilt

3. You complete probation or court-ordered conditions

4. The case is then dismissed without conviction

This option is not a conviction, and you will not be labeled a felon or convict if you successfully complete it. However, the charge may still appear on background checks unless it's sealed or expunged.

What Crimes Aren’t a Felony in Arkansas?

Crimes in Arkansas fall into two main categories:

Don’t Let the System Define You by a Label

Call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We’ll help you understand your options and protect your name.

📞 Call Ludwig Law Firm today at 501-838-4043
🌐 Visit us at ludwiglawfirm.com
📍 Proudly serving clients across Arkansas

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.

Misdemeanors are not felonies and do not make you a felon. However, they still count as convictions and may make you a “convict” under legal terms.

What Happens If You’re Charged But Not Convicted?

You can be:

• Arrested

• Jailed

• Required to appear in court

• Subject to bond conditions

…but unless the court formally convicts you, you’re not a felon or a convict. This distinction is critical when applying for jobs, housing, licenses, or expungement.

How a Lawyer Can Help Protect Your Status

A criminal defense attorney can help:

• Avoid a conviction altogether

• Push for diversion or deferred adjudication

• Negotiate charges down from felonies to misdemeanors

• File for sealing or expungement if the case qualifies

At Ludwig Law Firm, we don’t just aim for “good enough.” We prepare every case like it’s going to trial and fight to keep your name clean.

When a case requires sharper courtroom defense or trial experience, we often partner with Warden Law Firm. When a client needs both finesse and firepower, a Ludwig and Warden partnership is the best option.