Generally, a crime is considered a felony when it is punishable by more than a year in a state prison (also called a penitentiary). Infractions are defined as crimes where the maximum penalty is a fine. This article looks at the differences among these crime classifications, moving from least serious (infractions… An infraction, the least serious offense, has less severe consequences than a misdemeanor or felony. Some states define a misdemeanor as a crime that is not a felony or an infraction Just as infractions are sorted into classes misdemeanors are as well. Class A misdemeanor - one year or less, but more than six months; Felonies are the most serious kinds of crimes. A good criminal defense lawyer may be able to plea bargain your offense down to a less serious category, saving you from some of the long-term consequences of more serious crimes, such as a criminal record, jail time, and losing the right to vote. A licensed bail bondsman is happy to answer your questions 24 hours a day. A … We also learned that the classification of a crime as an infraction, misdemeanor, felony, or wobbler is based on the maximum punishment allowed for that criminal act. The categories are usually "felony," "misdemeanor," and "infraction." Felony, Misdemeanor and Infraction information at 877-422-4591. Levels of Offenses. The seriousness of a charge depends on whether it’s a felony, misdemeanor, or infraction.

All crimes are crimes against the State of California. If found guilty of a misdemeanor it becomes part of the public record and appears on your “criminal record.” A misdemeanor charge is a more serious offense than an infraction and if convicted can result in a jail sentence up to a year and a fine. A Misdemeanor. Decisions on crime classification are made by state legislators; the determination focuses on the seriousness of the crime. Under the federal sentencing guidelines, the classes are divided up by the maximum imprisonment for the offense.