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

In criminal defense law, the key difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is the severity of the crime. A misdemeanor charge is considered a less serious offense than a felony charge. Misdemeanors in Texas are typically punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine. The majority of misdemeanor offenses in Texas are Class A, B, or C misdemeanors. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious of these three and can result in up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Examples of Class A misdemeanors include assault causing bodily injury and DWI. Conversely, a felony is a much more serious criminal offense than a misdemeanor. Felonies in Texas generally carry a prison sentence of more than one year. Additionally, the fines for a felony conviction can exceed $10,000. Examples of felony offenses in Texas include burglary of a habitation, murder, and sexual assault. Put simply, a misdemeanor is generally a less serious criminal offense than a felony and is usually punishable by a year or less in jail with a maximum of $4,000 in fines. Conversely, a felony is a much more serious offense and is punishable by more than one year in prison and/or fines up to $10,000 or more.

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