What is the key difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Missouri?

In Missouri, the primary distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor lies in the severity of penalties associated with each category. Felonies are categorized as more serious crimes that generally lead to harsher penalties, including longer periods of imprisonment, higher fines, or a combination of both. For instance, felonies in Missouri can result in imprisonment for more than one year, often in state prison, whereas misdemeanors typically result in shorter jail sentences, often less than a year, usually served in a county jail.

The distinction doesn't hinge on the type of crime—meaning not all felonies are violent crimes or related solely to property crimes. Instead, felonies encompass a range of offenses, including but not limited to violent acts, drug offenses, and serious property crimes, all of which warrant the severe penalties that characterize this classification. Thus, the key difference highlighted is centered on the harsher penalties that come with felony convictions, marking their significance within the legal system in Missouri.