Frank
1) a crime sufficiently serious to be punishable by death or a term in state or federal prison, as distinguished from a misdemeanor which is only punishable by confinement to county or local jail and/or a fine. 2) a crime carrying a minimum term of one year or more in state prison, since a year or less can be served in county jail. however, a sentence upon conviction for a felony may sometimes be less than one year at the discretion of the judge and within limits set by statute. felonies are sometimes referred to as “high crimes” as described in the u.s. constitution.
