What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in criminal defense law?

In criminal defense law, felonies and misdemeanors are the two types of criminal offenses. Felonies are the most serious type of crimes and are punishable by a prison sentence of one year or more. Felonies in Massachusetts range from murder and rape to burglary and possession of a controlled substance. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are lesser offenses and only carry a maximum prison sentence of up to one year. Examples of misdemeanors in Massachusetts are shoplifting, minor assault, and possession of a small amount of drugs. The biggest difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is the severity of the punishment that follows the conviction. A felony conviction can result in a longer prison sentence or even the death penalty, while a misdemeanor conviction usually results in fines, probation, or a short jail sentence. Additionally, someone who is convicted of a felony may have their rights as a citizen taken away, such as the right to vote. Another difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is the way the case is handled. Felony cases are usually heard in a higher court with a jury, whereas misdemeanor cases usually incur a fine and can be handled in a lower court with a judge alone. Although felonies and misdemeanors have different levels of severity, they are both forms of criminal defense law and should not be taken lightly. Anyone who has been charged with a crime should consult an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure their rights are protected and they receive a fair trial.

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What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in criminal defense law?

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