What duration of imprisonment classifies an offense as a felony?

An offense is classified as a felony if it carries a maximum punishment of more than six months in prison. This classification is important because felonies typically involve more severe crimes and therefore carry heavier penalties. In legal terms, the distinction between misdemeanors and felonies often hinges on the length of imprisonment. Misdemeanors generally involve sentences of less than six months, reinforcing the idea that a punishment exceeding this threshold signifies a more serious offense deserving of felony classification. This distinction plays a crucial role in legal proceedings, influencing factors such as bail eligibility, sentencing guidelines, and implications for a criminal record.