Which of the following defines a Felony?

A felony is defined as a crime that is punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year. This designation reflects the severity of the offense, which typically involves significant harm to individuals or society and warrants harsher penalties than less serious crimes, known as misdemeanors. Felonies can encompass a wide range of serious offenses, including violent crimes, property crimes, and certain types of fraud.

Understanding this definition is critical for those working within the juvenile justice system, as it helps differentiate between types of offenses and the legal implications associated with each. This distinction is essential for appropriate sentencing, rehabilitation programs, and determining the rights of offenders.

In contrast, minor crimes that carry short sentences describe misdemeanors, which are less serious offenses. Additionally, the notion of mandatory probation suggests conditions that may accompany certain convictions, but does not encapsulate the broad definition of a felony. Lastly, while community service might be a possible sentence for some crimes, it does not define a felony as penalties can vary widely and include incarceration that exceeds one year.