Misdemeanors

A misdemeanor is a category of crime that is considered less serious than a felony. In many legal systems, misdemeanors are offenses punishable by shorter incarceration, fines, or both, typically up to a year in jail in many jurisdictions. They sit between felonies and infractions in severity. The exact definitions and penalties vary by jurisdiction, and some places further subdivide misdemeanors into classes that indicate increasing seriousness.

Examples commonly include petty theft, simple assault, vandalism, trespass, and many driving offenses such as some cases of DUI. In some jurisdictions, DUI or aggravated forms of driving offenses can be charged as felonies when there are aggravating factors, but are often misdemeanors for first offenses or less serious cases.

Procedurally, misdemeanors are typically prosecuted by local or state authorities and may be charged by information or complaint rather than a grand jury indictment. They may be resolved by plea agreement or go to trial, with a verdict of guilty or not guilty by a judge or jury. Sentences commonly include fines, probation, community service, or confinement in a local jail for up to one year.

Convictions can carry lasting consequences beyond penalties, including a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, voting, and immigration status. Some jurisdictions allow expungement or sealing of misdemeanor records after a period, subject to conditions and exceptions.

Worldwide use varies: the exact term misdemeanor is used in many U.S. states and some other systems, while other countries use different classifications or terminology to describe similar offenses.