What are the classifications of criminal conduct – Misdemeanor and Felony?

Criminal conduct is generally classified by the level of severity and the potential punishment for breaking the law. The two primary classifications of crimes are as follows:

• Misdemeanor – A misdemeanor is a crime of lesser significance that is punishable by a fine or a joint sentence of less than one year.
• Felonies – Felonies are more serious crimes that are punishable by fine or imprisonment in a penitentiary for a period of one year or more.

Historically, the common law identified treason as a class of serious offenses that was separate from a felony.

Also, today, many jurisdictions identify a less severe form of a criminal act, known as an infraction.

The infraction is generally a minor violation of an ordinance or regulation.