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 Arizona, as in other states, criminal offenses are classified into felonies and misdemeanors based on the severity of the crime. Felonies are considered more serious and can result in imprisonment for more than one year, while misdemeanors are less serious with potential jail time of one year or less. The Arizona Revised Statutes outline specific crimes and their corresponding classifications. For federal offenses, the United States Congress determines the classification and penalties, designating which crimes are felonies and which are misdemeanors. The classification affects not only the length of potential sentences but also other legal consequences and rights, such as voting and firearm possession. It's important to note that some crimes may be prosecuted under either state or federal law, depending on the circumstances and jurisdiction.