What is the difference between a "felony" and a "misdemeanor"?

A felony is indeed a more serious crime than a misdemeanor, which is why this choice is correct. The distinction between the two classes of offenses primarily lies in the severity of the crime and the consequences that they entail.

Felonies typically involve serious crimes such as murder, rape, robbery, or drug trafficking, and they often carry significant penalties, including imprisonment for more than one year, substantial fines, or both. Felony convictions can also lead to long-term consequences, such as loss of voting rights or difficulties in obtaining employment.

On the other hand, misdemeanors are less severe offenses, such as petty theft, public intoxication, or simple assault. While they can result in penalties including fines and imprisonment, the term of imprisonment for misdemeanors is usually less than one year, often served in local jails rather than state prisons.

Understanding this hierarchy in the legal system is crucial not only for grasping the nature of criminal offenses but also for recognizing the implications of a criminal record and the legal proceedings that may follow depending on the classification of the crime. This classification system helps inform the law enforcement, legal professionals, and the public about the seriousness of different criminal acts and their consequences.