A misdemeanor is a type of criminal offense that is less serious than a felony and generally punishable by less severe penalties. Typically, misdemeanors carry a maximum jail sentence of less than one year, often served in a county or local jail rather than a state prison
. Common punishments for misdemeanors include imprisonment for up to 12 months, fines, probation, community service, or restitution
. Misdemeanors are often classified into categories based on severity. For example, some states use classes such as:
- Class A: up to one year but more than six months in jail,
- Class B: six months or less but more than 30 days,
- Class C: 30 days or less but more than five days
Examples of misdemeanors include petty theft, public intoxication, simple assault, disorderly conduct, trespassing, vandalism, reckless driving, and some traffic offenses like DUI or speeding
. The key distinction between misdemeanors and felonies is the severity of the crime and the corresponding punishment. Felonies are more serious crimes with penalties exceeding one year of imprisonment and often have more lasting legal consequences
. In summary, a misdemeanor is a lesser criminal offense punishable by up to one year in jail or other penalties such as fines or community service, and it is distinguished from more serious felony offenses by the lesser severity of punishment and crime
