What′s the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
“High crimes and misdemeanors” - “petty and status offenses”
“city ordinances” - “felonies” - “infractions”
You′ve probably heard most of these terms. Through TV, the movies, or personal experience, you′ve come across these references to crime. But what exactly are they, and what do they mean to you?
Crime is divided into categories: felonies, misdemeanors, and petty offenses. If a crime is committed by a minor, it′s referred to as a delinquent act. The seriousness of the act determines its classification and the resulting penalty.
Photo by davidsonscott15
A felony is the most serious crime. Felonies include murder, assault, residential burglary, kidnapping, and other violent offenses. The penalty for conviction of a felony may include jail in excess of one year, probation, prison, or a life sentence. The death penalty is not applicable to anyone under 18 years of age.
A misdemeanor isn′t as serious as a felony. Conviction may result in a jail term, usually up to one year. You may also be placed on probation with specific terms such as counseling, drug tests, or community service hours. Misdemeanor offenses include shoplifting, trespassing, criminal damage, and disorderly conduct.
Photo by Doug Letterman
A petty offense or infraction is any violation of the law that isn′t designated a misdemeanor or a felony. These are lesser offenses such as underage smoking, seat belt violations, or littering. They usually result in a small fine. A status offense is any act committed by an underage person that wouldn′t be an offense if committed by an adult. Runaway incidents, curfew violations, possession of alcohol or tobacco, and truancy are all examples of status offenses. These acts are against the law only because you’re a minor.
This post was written by Tom Jacobs. Judge Tom is the founder and moderator of AsktheJudge.info. He is a retired juvenile judge and spent 23 years on the bench. He has written several books for lawyers and judges as well as teens and parents including the recently published 'Teen Cyberbullying Investigated' (Free Spirit Publishing). When he's not answering teens' questions, Judge Tom can be found hiking, traveling and reading.
is drug possession and intention to sell a felony
Dear Ijubica: Possesssion of drugs may be a felony depending on the quantity involved and the laws in the state where this happened. Sale or attempt to sell drugs is likewise a felony depending on the circumstances of the case. For specific information, Google the name of your state and “possession of drugs law.” Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).
where does stealing a car fit into this? what would the punnishment for that be?
Thanks
Dear Hannah: That depends on the laws in your state, the circumstances of the theft, the position of the victim and prosecutor, etc. Google the name of your state and “car theft” for information. Good luck.
(This is information only – not legal advice).