The terms felony and misdemeanor seem synonymous, yet a prosecutor considers a lot of factors when filing charges against a person accused of breaking the law.

Generally, criminal acts fall into categories and classes that determine the punishments. The categories and relatesd punishments also depend on how each state defines the crime committed. State legislations also prescribe guidelines on how criminals will be punished accordingly. Oftentimes, the differences in state definitions of felony and misdemeanor are crystal clear when the crime pertains to violations of drug laws.

Felony is More Serious than Misdemeanor 

Compared to misdemeanor, felony especially if involving robbery and murder are regarded as serious offenses. Such crimes bring on heavier penalties and longer jail terms or sentences. Misdemeanors on the other hand, are usually non-violent minor offenses like vandalism and shoplifting that bring on lighter penalties and jail terms.

Repercussions of Criminal Convictions

Having a criminal record of either felony or misdemeanor once you’re of legal age can leave a negative mark on one’s resume or biographical data. In most cases, a criminal record can affect various aspects of life, particularly employment opportunities. Even if a charge against a person has been dropped, the related criminal records alone can still create a negative impact. More so if a person has been convicted of the crime that he or she was accused of committing.