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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 Colorado, criminal offenses are indeed categorized into felonies and misdemeanors, reflecting the seriousness of the crime. Felonies are the more severe offenses and can result in prison sentences of more than one year, while misdemeanors are less severe and typically carry sentences of one year or less. The classification of crimes and the corresponding penalties at the federal level are determined by the United States Congress. Similarly, the Colorado state legislature is responsible for defining which offenses constitute felonies and misdemeanors under state law. The state statutes provide a framework for the classification and sentencing of various criminal behaviors, ensuring that the punishment is proportionate to the offense.

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Criminal charges

misdemeanors

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Colorado State Code

Criminal charges

misdemeanors

Articles