How do felonies differ from misdemeanors?

How do felonies differ from misdemeanors?

• A. Felonies are more serious offenses with potentially longer sentences; misdemeanors are less serious with lighter penalties.
• B. Felonies are petty crimes.
• C. Misdemeanors are always non-criminal acts.
• D. They carry the same penalties.

Answer: (A)

Severity and penalties distinguish felonies from misdemeanors. Felonies are the more serious crimes and can carry longer prison terms, often in state or federal facilities, along with harsher collateral consequences. Misdemeanors are less serious and typically result in shorter jail time (often up to a year) and lighter fines, with fewer lasting effects on rights. Both are crimes, so it isn’t accurate to describe misdemeanors as non-criminal acts or as having the same penalties as felonies.

Severity and penalties distinguish felonies from misdemeanors. Felonies are the more serious crimes and can carry longer prison terms, often in state or federal facilities, along with harsher collateral consequences. Misdemeanors are less serious and typically result in shorter jail time (often up to a year) and lighter fines, with fewer lasting effects on rights. Both are crimes, so it isn’t accurate to describe misdemeanors as non-criminal acts or as having the same penalties as felonies.