What is one key characteristic of a misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is characterized primarily by being less serious than a felony. This distinction is important in the criminal justice system, as it determines the nature of the charges, the potential penalties, and the legal processes involved. Generally, misdemeanors are punishable by fines and/or short-term incarceration, typically in local jail rather than a state prison, which is associated with felonies.

The other options do not accurately define a key characteristic of misdemeanors. For instance, a trial by jury is not exclusive to misdemeanors, as both felonies and certain misdemeanors can allow for jury trials. Additionally, while misdemeanors can lead to imprisonment, this is not a defining characteristic since not all misdemeanors result in a jail sentence. Lastly, not all misdemeanors involve federal law violations; many are state or local offenses. Therefore, recognizing that misdemeanors are fundamentally less serious than felonies is crucial for understanding their legal implications.