What is the typical consequence of a misdemeanor?

The typical consequence of a misdemeanor includes fines and less than one year in custody, which aligns with standard legal definitions for this category of crime. Misdemeanors are generally considered less severe than felonies and carry a maximum punishment of one year in jail or less, along with potential fines.

In many jurisdictions, misdemeanors can also result in community service or probation, but the critical aspect to understand is that the immediate consequence tends to involve some degree of custody or financial penalty within that one-year limit. This nuanced understanding is crucial for grasping the legal distinction between misdemeanor and felony charges, as the latter typically entail more severe repercussions including longer imprisonment and larger fines.