What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

In Massachusetts, the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is based on the severity of the crime. A felony is a more serious offense and carries a greater penalty, such as a prison sentence of more than one year and/or a monetary fine. Examples of felony offenses include murder, rape, and kidnapping. A misdemeanor is a less serious offense and carries a lesser penalty, such as a prison sentence of up to one year and/or a monetary fine. Examples of misdemeanor offenses include DUI, shoplifting, and assault. In Massachusetts, both misdemeanors and felonies are tried in a court of law. However, felonies are tried in a state superior court while misdemeanors are tried in a district court. In addition, felonies are subject to a jury trial, whereas misdemeanors are subject to a bench trial with a judge alone. Finally, felonies are generally considered more serious than misdemeanors, so the legal consequences for a felony conviction can be much more severe.

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What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

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