Because many different offenses can be charged as family violence crimes, the potential penalties vary tremendously. Furthermore, many individual offenses can have varying degrees of severity depending on the circumstances. For instance, stalking can be charged in the first, second or third degree. Assault crimes come in an even wider variety and can be penalized as a Class A misdemeanor or Class A, B, C or D felony. In most situations, when a crime results in serious injuries or involves the use of a weapon, the penalties are more severe.