Hence, the charge started off as a misdemeanor, but was bumped down to a warning because the storeowner had pressed no charges on the child. Other examples of this type of situation are vandalism and disorderly conduct. In the same way, drug offenses can be dealt with by a verbal warning depending on the quantity and type of drug in possession.
Misdemeanors are the next most severe category in which crimes can be labeled. Misdemeanors are all crimes that are less serious than a felony. Misdemeanor offenses always result in arrest and can have serious penalties. The sentencing for misdemeanor offenses results in little if any jail time, but a criminal record is always filed. The maximum jail time to be served for a misdemeanor is one year. Also, the jail time is to be served in a state, city, or county jail. With misdemeanors, irrelevant to jail time, come fines and always court appearances. After the court proceedings, misdemeanor sentences can include probation and/or community service, along with fines and possible jail time. Misdemeanors are divided into three categories: first degree, second degree, and third degree misdemeanors. First degree is the most serious, and second and third degree are less serious, respectively. Some examples of third degree misdemeanors are simple assault, DUI, and some minor drug offenses. Resisting arrest, aggravated assault, fraud, drug offenses, and child endangerment are examples of crimes likely to be found under the second and first degree categories. Likewise, burglaries, vandalism, misconduct, and disorderly conduct may be tried as second or first degree offenses, but are commonly found in the third degree. On the other hand, if a person has been found guilty of the same misdemeanor crime more then twice, the case is now treated as a felony case.
The last and most severe category a crime falls into, is the felony. If a person is found guilty of committing a felony, then he/she is referred to as a felon.
