How are felonies different from misdemeanors?

In U.S. jurisdictions, the distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor is primarily determined by the severity of the crime and its associated penalties.1

• Felonies: These are considered more serious offenses. They are typically defined as crimes punishable by imprisonment for one year or more, or in some cases, the death penalty. A conviction for a felony may result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote, the right to hold public office, or the right to possess firearms.213
• Misdemeanors: These are generally classified as less serious offenses. They are typically punishable by fines or short-term incarceration in local jails.213

Historically, common law distinguished between these categories to determine court procedures and police powers, such as the authority to make an arrest. While many modern legal systems continue to use this classification, some critics argue that the division can be inconsistent or arbitrary, as the gravity of an offense does not always align perfectly with these traditional labels.41