What are the differences between a violation and a crime, a misdemeanor and felony?
An offense is a violation if: a) The offense is so described in the statute defining the offense. b) The statute prescribing the penalty for the offense provides that the offense is punishable only by a fine, forfeiture, fine and forfeiture or other civil penalty (ORS 161.565). Under most circumstances the fine limitations for violations is the same as that for misdemeanor crimes. A crime is an offense for which a sentence of imprisonment is authorized. A crime is either a misdemeanor or a felony, (ORS 161.505). Misdemeanor crimes generally are considered less serious than felony crimes. Misdemeanor: A crime is a misdemeanor if it is so designated in any statute of Oregon or if a person convicted thereof may be sentenced to a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than one year, (ORS 161.545). A fine can also be imposed.
