Felony
A serious criminal offense, typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death, distinguishing it from a less severe misdemeanor.
A serious criminal offense, typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death, distinguishing it from a less severe misdemeanor.
Example: Armed robbery, murder, and large-scale fraud are classified as felonies, carrying significant prison sentences and long-term collateral consequences like loss of voting rights.
Common misconception: All felonies result in mandatory prison time. While felonies are serious, judges often have sentencing discretion, and some felony convictions may result in probation, fines, or alternative sentencing depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances.