Differences between felony, misdemeanor and infraction in the United States
If you live in the U.S., knowing the difference between a felony, a misdemeanor, and an infraction can save you legal trouble. Penalties range from simple fines to years in prison. We'll explain what each category entails and when you need a lawyer.
Understand the differences between felony, misdemeanor and infraction It is important to understand the legal system in the United States.
These terms refer to different levels of severity of a crime, and the associated legal consequences may vary significantly between them.
In this article, we will explore the differences between felonies, misdemeanors and infractions, how they are classified and the possible legal consequences from each of them.
What is a felony?
A felony is a serious crime which is punished with harsher penalties than minor crimes, known as misdemeanors or contraventions. In many legal systems, a felony is considered a more serious crime than a misdemeanor and can result in longer prison sentences, higher fines and other significant legal consequences. These serious crimes may include crimes such as:
- Murder.
- Kidnappings.
- Violations.
- Armed robbery.
- Drug trafficking.
- Fraud.
- Tax evasion.
- Arson fires.
The condemned people for felony almost always they are imprisoned for longer, and the conditions of imprisonment are almost always more severe.
What is a misdemeanor?
Un misdemeanor is a type of legal infraction considered less serious than a felony. These crimes, also known as misdemeanors or minor infractions, They are usually punished with less severe penalties and may include actions such as:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Petty theft.
- Traffic violations.
- Possession of small quantities of drugs, among others.
The penalties for minor crimes usually fines, probation, community service or short prison terms compared to the longer sentences associated with felonies.
What is a violation?
An infraction is a violation of a rule, rule or law established by a competent authority, such as a government or organization. Refers to an act or behavior that is prohibited by law or regulations and which may give rise to sanctions or penalties, but which generally It is not considered that serious as a misdemeanor or felony.
The violations may include a wide variety of actions, from traffic violations, such as exceeding the speed limit, to violations of municipal regulations, such as prohibiting smoking in designated areas. The Penalties for violations are usually monetary fines, although they may also include written warnings, confiscation of property or community services.
What is a “wobbler” crime?
Un wobbler crime is a legal term used in some states in the United States for refer to a crime which can be considered both as a misdemeanor as a felony, depending on the severity of the crime.
To reach a decision, a prosecutor may choose to prosecute a "wobbler" crime as a misdemeanor or as a felony, at your discretion and the seriousness of the crime.
Decision may be based on factors such as the defendant's criminal history and the seriousness of the events.
When do you need to call a lawyer?
Slablawyers are those contacts that they should always be in your phone book, since you don't know when you will need one. If you find yourself involved in any of these situations, We recommend you call your lawyer:
- If you are arrested or face criminal charges.
- If you are in the process of divorce, child custody, child support and adoption.
- If you have suffered injuries due to a car accident, work accident, medical negligence or other incident.
- If you are being evicted or have disputes with landlords.
- If you are suffering from discrimination, workplace harassment, wage disputes and unfair termination of employment.