What constitutes a "felony" under the CCP?

A felony is defined as a more serious crime that typically carries harsher penalties and longer terms of imprisonment, often exceeding one year. This classification is important within the context of criminal law, as it affects various aspects of prosecution, sentencing, and the rights of individuals who are accused or convicted of such offenses. Felonies may include violent crimes, major fraud, or serious drug offenses, and the larger penalties reflect the severity of these actions in society.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for law enforcement, attorneys, and individuals navigating the legal system, as the outcomes and consequences for felonies are considerably more severe than for less serious crimes, such as misdemeanors. Crimes that involve fines or less jail time do not meet the threshold of a felony, reinforcing why the characterization of a crime significantly impacts its legal proceedings and implications.