What defines felonies in the legal system?

Felonies are defined in the legal system as serious crimes that are punishable by imprisonment, typically for more than one year, and sometimes by death. These offenses encompass a range of serious actions, such as murder, rape, and armed robbery, which pose significant harm to individuals or society at large. The severity of the punishment reflects the gravity of the offense, and felonies generally carry more substantial legal consequences than lesser crimes.

In contrast, the other options provided refer to less serious offenses. Minor infractions usually involve much lighter penalties, such as fines, and do not result in incarceration. Traffic violations, while potentially serious in their consequences, typically do not rise to the level of a felony unless they involve severe injury, death, or repeated offenses. Misdemeanors also carry comparatively lighter penalties and often involve community service or short jail terms rather than long-term imprisonment. Understanding the definition of felonies helps clarify the broader structure of criminal law, where these serious crimes are treated distinctly due to their implications for society and the individuals affected by such offenses.