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 Maryland, criminal offenses are classified into felonies and misdemeanors based on their severity, similar to the federal system. Felonies are considered more serious crimes and typically carry potential prison sentences of more than one year. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses and are usually punishable by incarceration for one year or less. The Maryland General Assembly, the state's legislative body, determines the classification of state crimes and the corresponding penalties. This classification affects various aspects of the criminal justice process, including charging, plea bargaining, and sentencing. For federal offenses, the classification and penalties are established by the United States Congress. It is important to note that some crimes may be considered a felony under federal law but a misdemeanor under Maryland state law, or vice versa, depending on the specific statutes and legal definitions in place.