Felonies vs. Misdemeanors

While the differences between felonies and misdemeanors may vary in different areas across the United States, there is a general rule used to discern one from the other on a national level. Typically, a felony is defined as any criminal activity resulting in a punishment of one year or more in prison. Misdemeanors are commonly considered to be crimes that are punishable by less than a year of incarceration. As can be seen by the level of punishment attributed to each type of crime, felonies are more serious offenses than misdemeanors.

Felonies

Felonies are considered to be very serious offenses in the United States. Due to the gravity of these actions, those who commit felonies are liable to be punished much more severely than those who carry out petty crimes or misdemeanors. While felonious actions are decided on a state-by-state basis, the following are typically considered to be felonies:

• Arson
• Aggravated Battery/Assault
• Robbery
• Murder
• Rape
• Fraud

Felonies may be punishable by anywhere from one year to life in prison without parole in conjunction with fines of up to $100,000.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are considered to be “lesser criminal acts” when compared to felonies. The punishments for misdemeanors are less severe than those delivered to those who commit felonies. Like felonies, misdemeanors are defined by the state, but the following are, in general, considered to be acts that fall under this category:

• Petty theft
• Disorderly conduct
• Public intoxication
• Prostitution
• Vandalism
• DUI

Penalties for misdemeanors can include up to one year of incarceration and/or up to $1,000 in fines.

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more about felonies and misdemeanors in Florida, the West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyers of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. can assist you. Please contact our law offices today at 561-353-2800 to speak with one of our qualified attorneys.