The Difference Between Felonies & Misdemeanors

In criminal law, there are varying levels of offenses. An infraction is the least serious, followed by a misdemeanor, with a felony being the worst. A misdemeanor is usually punished by fines and time in jail, the length depending on the severity of the case. In some states, misdemeanors are classified as gross misdemeanors, ordinary misdemeanors, and petty misdemeanors.

Felonies include repeat offenses, or acts of terrorism, murder, kidnapping, arson, treason, and more. Rather than being incarcerated in jail, a felony is punishable by time in state prison as well as fines. Some crimes are "wobblers," meaning that they can be charged either as misdemeanors or felonies.

As both of these classes of offenses are serious, it is imperative to have a legal professional fighting for your best interests. A Miami criminal lawyer from Hager & Schwartz, P.A. will do everything in their power to protect your rights. To learn more, contact a Miami criminal defense attorney from our legal team today.