Is it a crime? If so, what type of crime? These questions are answered depending on the seriousness of the crime, state laws, and more. To help you figure out why running afoul of the law is called so many different things, read on and learn more about felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions.

Felony Crimes

This, the most serious of the category, refers to crimes that usually involve violence against another. Murder, rape, kidnapping, manslaughter, and other crimes may be considered felonies and most will often be punished by jail time. As with other crimes, felonies may be classified as to the degree (murder in the first degree, for example) or other levels or classes. These break down the crime based on the harm done to a person, the amount of money involved, the age of the alleged victim, the amount of the drugs, and more. In some cases, the defendant's previous record will dictate a felony or a misdemeanor. For example, driving under the influence (DUI) charges may be increased to a felony if the defendant has previous DUI convictions on their record. It should also be mentioned that crimes that fall under the jurisdiction of the federal system may be prosecuted as felonies automatically.

Misdemeanor Crimes

This level has the reputation of seeming less-serious but the punishment for misdemeanors can be almost as severe as that of a felony. Jail is possible but may be for only a year or less for many misdemeanors. In most cases, a misdemeanor won't involve bodily harm to a victim. A misdemeanor can easily be elevated to a felony with just a few tweaks. For instance, a misdemeanor robbery charge will likely end up being charged as a felony if the perpetrator carried a deadly weapon when carrying out the robbery.

Traffic Infractions and Tickets

This category deals with minor issues like traffic infractions and the payment of a fine is often the only punishment. People are not arrested for an infraction but if they fail to pay the fines charged or appear in court they might be arrested for failure to appear and other charges. Having a glove box stuffed full of traffic citations can quickly turn serious for offenders. Not all traffic crimes result in only a citation, however. In most states, for instance, speeding a certain mile per hour over the limit will result in felony reckless driving charges and arrests.

If you or a loved one has been charged with any of the above, speak to a criminal defense lawyer about clearing your name and your record.