What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

The main difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Idaho is the severity of the punishment for the crime. Felonies are more serious offenses and carry harsher penalties than misdemeanors. A felony is a criminal offense that can result in a term in state prison, heavy fines, and other restrictions, such as the loss of the right to possess a firearm or to vote. In Idaho, some felonies include murder, aggravated assault, rape, burglary, grand theft, and drug trafficking. On the other hand, a misdemeanor is a less severe crime, punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or some combination of the two. In Idaho, some misdemeanors include assault, battery, driving under the influence (DUI), petit theft, and possession of a controlled substance. In Idaho, the court system processes both felonies and misdemeanors. For felonies, the case typically begins in the district court, where a preliminary hearing is held to determine whether the accused should stand trial. If the case goes to trial, typically a jury will decide the outcome. For misdemeanors, the process is slightly different: the case begins in the magistrate court, and the case may be tried in a bench trial with no jury present.

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What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

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