Misdemeanor vs felony exam review

What is a misdemeanor?

A lesser crime, typically punishable by less than one year in jail.

What is a felony?

A serious crime, usually punishable by more than one year in prison.

Example of a misdemeanor

Petty theft, vandalism, or simple assault.

Example of a felony

Murder, rape, or armed robbery.

True or false: Misdemeanors can lead to state prison.

False, because misdemeanors are generally punished by local jail.

Difference in punishment

Felonies have harsher penalties, including longer incarceration.

Fill in the blank: A felony conviction often results in __________.

loss of voting rights and difficulty finding employment.

True or false: All felonies are more serious than all misdemeanors.

True, because felonies are classified as more severe offenses.

What is a plea bargain?

An agreement in which a defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge.

Comparison: misdemeanor vs felony

Misdemeanor: less severe, up to 1 year; Felony: more severe, over 1 year.

Which usually costs more in fines?

Felonies tend to have higher fines than misdemeanors.

Impact on employment?

Felony records can severely limit job opportunities.

Can misdemeanors be expunged?

Yes, they can often be expunged from records.

True or false: A felony conviction can lead to deportation.

True, especially for non-citizens.

What does 'jail time' refer to?

Time served in a local jail, often for misdemeanors.

What does 'prison time' refer to?

Time served in a state or federal prison, often for felonies.

Short-term vs long-term consequences

Misdemeanors often have short-term effects; felonies have lasting impacts.

What is recidivism?

The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.

Difference in courts

Misdemeanors are handled in lower courts; felonies in higher courts.