Criminal Justice Practice Exam

The distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor primarily revolves around the severity of the crime and the corresponding punishment. Felonies are classified as more serious crimes that carry substantial penalties, typically involving imprisonment for more than one year. In addition to lengthy prison sentences, felonies can also entail other severe repercussions, such as fines, loss of voting rights, or difficulties in securing employment.

On the other hand, misdemeanors are considered less serious offenses, and they are generally punishable by less than one year in jail or other lighter sentences, such as probation or community service. The differentiation between these two classifications primarily influences legal proceedings, sentencing, and the long-term impact on an individual's criminal record.

This understanding clarifies why the distinction in the provided answer regarding penalties is accurate, emphasizing the legal significance of categorizing crimes as either felonies or misdemeanors.