What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is a relatively minor crime, like shoplifting. More serious crimes are felonies, like rape or murder.

The major difference is the punishments or sentences for each. Punishment for a felony usually includes more than one year in a state or federal penitentiary or prison, and possibly death. Misdemeanor convictions, on the other hand, usually result in a sentence of less than one year in a state or county jail (from a few days to a several months).

Sentences for both misdemeanor and felony convictions may include a fine in addition to time in jail or prison.

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