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 North Dakota, as in other states, criminal offenses are classified into felonies and misdemeanors based on the severity of the crime. Felonies are the more serious offenses, potentially leading to prison sentences of more than one year, while misdemeanors are less serious, with sentences of one year or less. The North Dakota Century Code outlines the specific classifications and penalties for state-level offenses. The state legislature has the authority to define and categorize crimes under state law. For federal offenses, the United States Congress determines the classification and penalties, including the distinction between felonies and misdemeanors. It's important to note that the legal consequences for both felonies and misdemeanors can include fines, imprisonment, and other penalties as prescribed by applicable laws.