What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
A felony and a misdemeanor are two different types of criminal offenses in Texas. A felony is a more serious crime than a misdemeanor, and the consequences for committing a felony are more severe. The punishments for felonies can range from prison time to death. Misdemeanors typically have less serious punishments. Depending on the severity of the crime, punishments can range from a fine to time spent in jail. Both felonies and misdemeanors typically require an individual to appear in court and can have long-term impacts on a person’s record, such as the ability to obtain employment or housing. In Texas, felonies are divided into categories according to their level of severity. Capital felonies are the most serious type of felony and are punishable by death or life imprisonment. First-degree felonies are less severe and carry a sentence of five to 99 years in prison. Second-degree felonies carry two to 20 years in prison, and third-degree felonies are punishable by two to 10 years in prison. Misdemeanors are punishable by fines, community service, or a jail sentence of up to one year. In Texas, misdemeanors are divided into three categories: Class A misdemeanors, Class B misdemeanors, and Class C misdemeanors. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious and are punishable by up to one year in jail and or a fine of up to $4,000. Class B misdemeanors carry a punishment of up to 180 days in jail and or a fine of up to $2,000. Class C misdemeanors are the least serious, typically punishable by a fine of up to $500.
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