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 Nebraska, criminal offenses are indeed categorized into felonies and misdemeanors based on their severity, similar to the federal system. Felonies are the more serious crimes that can result in imprisonment for more than one year, while misdemeanors are less serious offenses with potential jail time of one year or less. The Nebraska Legislature determines the classification of state offenses and the corresponding penalties. For federal offenses, the classification and penalties are established by the United States Congress. Each category of crime carries different legal consequences and processes under both state and federal law. It's important for individuals to understand that the classification of an offense as a felony or misdemeanor will affect the nature of the legal proceedings, the potential sentences, and the long-term impact on an individual's legal record.