What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

The difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Maryland is in the severity of the crime committed. Felonies are considered more serious offenses, and they carry harsher punishments than misdemeanors. Felonies in Maryland are typically punishable by more than one year in a state prison. Examples of felonies in Maryland include murder, arson, rape, robbery, and armed burglary. The punishments for felonies may also include hefty fines, probation, and even life sentences. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are less serious offenses that typically come with a shorter jail sentence and/or smaller fines. Examples of misdemeanors in Maryland include assault, trespassing, disorderly conduct, and petty theft. At the federal level, felonies are defined differently than misdemeanors. Felonies can be classed as crimes that carry a punishment of imprisonment for more than one year or death. Examples of felonies in the federal system include treason, terrorism, and drug trafficking. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, involve lesser punishments that generally include a fine or no more than one year in a county or state jail. Examples of misdemeanors in the federal system include passport fraud, false advertising, and public intoxication.

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What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

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