What types of crimes are defined as a misdemeanor?

Misdemeanors are typically classified as offenses that are less severe than felonies but more serious than violations or infractions. The correct understanding of a misdemeanor includes crimes for which the maximum punishment does not exceed one year in jail. This reflects the legal framework under which misdemeanors are categorized, distinguishing them from felonies, which carry more severe penalties including longer imprisonment durations, and from violations, which often result in fines or lesser penalties.

Misdemeanors may encompass a variety of offenses, including petty theft, minor assaults, or public intoxication. Understanding this classification is critical in the context of the criminal justice system, as it influences the legal consequences, potential sentencing outcomes, and the nature of legal defense strategies.