What is a felony and a misdemeanor?
Crimes are classified as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are punishable by no more than one year in jail and are heard primarily by the district court of the jurisdiction where the crime took place. Vandalism, shoplifting, trespassing, prostitution, and drunk driving, if it is a first or second offense, are all examples of misdemeanors. For felonies, a hearing will be held in the district court where the crime occurred. The district court will conduct a hearing called a preliminary hearing. If the district judge determines there is enough evidence, the case will be certified to circuit court for trial. If you are convicted of a felony you could be sentenced to prison for a period of one year to life and/or to pay a fine. Homicide, arson, rape, robbery and burglary are examples of felonies.
