Select your state

Criminal charges

felonies

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 Oregon, as in other states, criminal offenses are categorized into felonies and misdemeanors based on their severity. Felonies are considered more serious crimes and typically carry potential prison sentences of more than one year. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses with potential sentences of up to one year, usually served in a county jail rather than a state prison. The classification of crimes and the corresponding penalties at the federal level are determined by the United States Congress. Similarly, the Oregon state legislature is responsible for defining state-level criminal offenses and designating them as either felonies or misdemeanaries, along with setting the penalties for each. This structure allows for a clear distinction between the severity of crimes and the punishments they incur at both the federal and state levels.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Criminal charges

felonies

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Oregon State Code

Oregon State Code

Criminal charges

felonies

Articles