What are the two main categories of crimes?

The distinction between felonies and misdemeanors is foundational in criminal law, serving as the primary classification of crimes based on their severity. Felonies are generally more serious offenses that can result in significant penalties, including imprisonment for more than one year, heavy fines, and even capital punishment in extreme cases. These might include crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are less severe violations that typically result in less severe penalties, such as shorter jail sentences (often less than a year), fines, or community service. Common examples include petty theft and simple assault.

Understanding these categories is essential because they dictate not only the legal consequences of a crime but also how the criminal justice system processes cases, including the types of courts involved, the severity of the punishment, and the rights afforded to the accused. This classification helps to ensure that the legal response is proportional to the nature of the crime committed.