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

In criminal defense law in Washington, there is a distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor. Felony offenses are the most serious types of crimes. They are punishable by incarceration for one year or more in a state or federal prison. Examples of felonies include murder, rape, armed robbery, and drug trafficking. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are less serious crimes that are punishable by a fine or a jail sentence of less than one year. Common examples of misdemeanors include minor assaults, petty theft, trespassing, and driving under the influence. Depending on the crime, some misdemeanors may also be punishable by probation. Another important difference between felonies and misdemeanors is that felonies may have stricter penalties, including a longer prison sentence, larger fines, and a longer period of probation. Additionally, individuals convicted of felonies may lose certain rights and privileges, such as being able to vote, owning a firearm, or even running for certain public offices. In criminal defense law in Washington, the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor determines the severity of the punishment. Felonies are typically punishable by longer prison sentences and larger fines, and may have other restrictions placed on the rights and privileges of the convicted individual. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are generally punishable by fines or jail sentences of less than one year.

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

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