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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 Connecticut (CT), criminal offenses are classified into felonies and misdemeanors based on the severity of the crime, consistent with the broader distinction used across the United States. Felonies in Connecticut are serious crimes that can result in imprisonment for more than one year, and in some cases, may even lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty. Misdemeanors in Connecticut are less serious offenses and typically carry penalties of imprisonment for one year or less. The Connecticut General Statutes outline specific offenses and their corresponding classifications. The state legislature has the authority to define and categorize state-level offenses, while the United States Congress is responsible for setting penalties for federal criminal offenses, including the determination of which federal crimes are felonies and which are misdemeanors.

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Criminal charges

misdemeanors

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Connecticut State Code

Connecticut State Code

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Criminal charges

misdemeanors