What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
The difference between a misdemeanor and a felony depends on the severity of the crime. A misdemeanor is generally a crime where the maximum penalty is one year or less in jail and fines of up to $2,500. Conviction of a felony in State court can result in jail or prison time for more than one year, up to $25,000 in fines, and can also result in other serious legal repercussions.
In Massachusetts, a misdemeanor is a crime which is punishable by a maximum of two and one-half years in a House of Correction. It could also be punishable by a continuance without a finding of guilt, probation or a suspended sentence. Examples of misdemeanors include assault and battery, violation of a restraining order, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, disorderly conduct or shoplifting, among many others. A felony is a crime which is punishable by a sentence to a state prison. Examples of felonies include murder, rape, armed robbery, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, among others.
A felony charge is a far more serious charge than a misdemeanor charge. A misdemeanor charge is punishable by jail up to one year and severe fines. Misdemeanors, although less serious than felony charges, will still be placed on your criminal record. A felony charge usually results in a jail term for more than one year and has much higher fines than that of a misdemeanor.
The difference between a misdemeanor and a felony depends on the severity of the crime. A misdemeanor is generally a crime where the maximum penalty is up to two years in jail. Conviction of a felony can result in jail or prison time for more than one year and can also result in other serious legal repercussions.
The distinction between these types of cases is fading, because all misdemeanors now may have serious consequences on your employment, your professional licenses, your insurance rates, and even your ability to secure credit and pass checks. Historically, ‘misdemeanors’ were considered less serious cases. Generally, the maximum term of confinement ,for a misdemeanor is one year, and every kind of crime that could result in longer than one year confinement is considered as a felony.
