Criminal offenses under state and federal laws are generally categorized by the seriousness of the crime as felonies (more serious) or misdemeanors (less serious). Felonies are offenses that generally may result in prison sentences of more than one year, and misdemeanors carry sentences of one year or less. The United States Congress sets the penalties for all federal criminal offenses, and thus decides which criminal offenses are felonies and which are misdemeanors. And the state legislature in each state decides which criminal offenses are felonies and which are misdemeanors under state law.

In Nevada, as in other states, criminal offenses are categorized into felonies and misdemeanors based on their severity, with felonies being the more serious crimes. Felonies in Nevada are punishable by imprisonment for more than one year, and they can include crimes such as murder, rape, burglary, and certain drug offenses. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are less serious offenses and typically carry penalties of up to one year in county or local jail. Examples of misdemeanors might include petty theft, simple assault, or traffic violations. The Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) outline the specific classifications and penalties for state-level offenses. For federal offenses, the United States Congress determines the classification and penalties, which apply nationwide. Both state and federal laws are subject to change, so it is important to consult the current statutes or an attorney for the most up-to-date information.