What distinguishes a felony from a misdemeanor?

A felony is distinguished from a misdemeanor primarily by its severity and the corresponding penalties associated with the crime. Felonies are generally viewed as more serious crimes which can lead to significant consequences, including longer prison sentences, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record that can impact future employment, housing, and civil rights.

For instance, crimes categorized as felonies could include murder, rape, or armed robbery, all of which typically carry substantial prison sentences—often more than a year. In contrast, misdemeanors often involve less severe offenses, such as petty theft or minor assaults, and are usually punished less harshly, often with shorter jail time (typically less than a year), fines, or community service.

Recognizing this distinction helps to clarify the legal framework within which different types of crimes are prosecuted and penalized, underlining the importance of understanding the implications of various criminal charges.