What distinguishes a misdemeanor from a felony?

The distinguishing factor between a misdemeanor and a felony primarily lies in the severity of the offense and the potential punishment associated with it. The correct choice highlights that a misdemeanor is typically considered a less severe crime, punishable by less than one year in jail, whereas a felony is a more serious offense that can lead to imprisonment for one year or more.

This distinction is important in the criminal justice system, as it influences the legal process, sentencing, and ramifications for individuals charged with these crimes. Misdemeanors often result in shorter jail sentences or other forms of punishment such as probation, community service, or fines, while felonies can lead to much longer prison sentences and a greater impact on an individual's life, including loss of rights such as voting or firearm possession.

Other choices do not accurately define the distinction: one incorrectly suggests that a misdemeanor involves only fines and another mistakenly implies that felonies are restricted to property crimes. This reinforces the need to understand the broader implications of how crimes are categorized and the associated penalties.