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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 Vermont, 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 typically carry potential prison sentences of more than one year. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses, with maximum sentences of one year or less, often served in a local or county jail instead of a state prison. The classification of crimes and the corresponding penalties at the federal level are determined by the United States Congress. For state-level offenses, the Vermont state legislature is responsible for defining which crimes are felonies and which are misdemeanors, as well as setting the penalties for each. This structure allows for a distinction in the handling of criminal offenses and ensures that the punishment is proportionate to the offense.

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Criminal charges

misdemeanors

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Vermont State Code

Vermont State Code

Criminal charges

misdemeanors

Articles