In most jurisdictions, there are two types of criminal infractions: felonies and misdemeanors. However, do you know what separates these charges? What makes some crimes felonies and others misdemeanors? Does the crime determine the severity of the punishment? Below, criminal law attorney Mark O. Grater, Attorney at Law, in Groton, CT, answers these questions.

Felonies Are Reserved for More Serious Crimes

A crime must be significant to be considered a felony. Murder, rape, kidnapping, and armed robbery are all felonies. In Connecticut, felonies and misdemeanors are broken down into classes; the higher the letter, the more serious the infraction. For example, a Class A felony is a more severe crime than a Class B, which is more severe than a Class C.

Misdemeanor Penalties Are Lighter Than Felony Penalties

Because the very nature of the crimes committed differs so markedly in scope and seriousness, misdemeanor convictions generally come with lighter sentences than felony convictions. In many cases, they will come with a citation and a fine; if jail time is imposed, it is brief. Felonies, on the other hand, involve lengthy imprisonment and substantial restitution.

Felony Sentences Are Served in Correctional Institutions

Another major difference between felonies and misdemeanors is where the convicted person is imprisoned. In misdemeanor cases, if jail time is warranted at all, the individual will likely serve their time in a city or county jail. In felony cases, the convict is typically sent to a correctional facility, which is larger and better equipped to hold a diverse population of inmates.

If you're facing criminal charges, trust criminal law attorney Mark O. Grater, Attorney at Law to give you the quality representation you need. He also offers services as a personal injury, workers' compensation, and bankruptcy lawyer. Call (860) 449-8059 or visit his firm online to make an appointment with a criminal law attorney today.