Misdemeanor

A misdemeanor is a type of criminal offense that is less serious than a felony. It typically involves minor crimes, such as petty theft, vandalism, or public disorder. Misdemeanors can result in penalties like fines, community service, or short jail time (usually less than a year). They are often classified into different levels, with more severe misdemeanors carrying harsher penalties. While misdemeanors are considered criminal offenses, they generally do not carry the same weight or long-term consequences as felonies, which can lead to significant jail time or heavy fines.