What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

The main difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in California is the severity of punishment. Generally speaking, felonies are more serious than misdemeanors and are punished more harshly. Felony charges typically involve jail time of one year or longer, while misdemeanors are punishable by a shorter jail sentence or probation. Felonies are typically crimes that are seen as more serious or violent than misdemeanors. Examples of felonies in California include murder, rape, robbery, and arson. Misdemeanors are usually crimes such as traffic violations, shoplifting, simple assault, and petty theft. The legal process is also different for felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies are usually tried in a court of law, while misdemeanors may be handled in a more informal manner. In California, a person facing a misdemeanor charge is entitled to a jury trial if requested, but this is not the case for felonies. The legal consequences of a criminal conviction also vary for felonies and misdemeanors. Felony convictions can result in a criminal record; however, a person who has been convicted of a misdemeanor may have their conviction sealed or expunged after a certain period of time. In California, felons may also have their voting rights taken away, while misdemeanors will not typically have this consequence.

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What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

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