Which term describes an offense that may be punished with imprisonment exceeding one year?

• A. Felony
• B. Misdemeanor
• C. Violation
• D. Infraction

Answer: (A)

In criminal law, offenses are categorized by the maximum punishment they carry. If an offense can be punished with imprisonment exceeding one year, it’s a felony. This distinguishes it from misdemeanors, which carry up to one year in jail, and from violations or infractions, which are typically penalties like fines and involve little to no jail time. Felonies cover the more serious crimes—things like homicide, serious robbery, or major fraud—and they carry heavier consequences, both in terms of sentencing and collateral effects. So, the term that fits the description is the one that represents the more serious category with potential years-long imprisonment.