What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

A misdemeanor is defined as a less serious offense than a felony and is generally punishable by a sentence of less than one year in jail. This distinction is important within the legal system, as it impacts the severity of the punishment and the long-term consequences for the individual convicted. Misdemeanors typically result in shorter sentences and may include fines or community service, which contrasts significantly with felonies that can lead to more serious penalties, including longer prison terms.

The other choices contain inaccuracies regarding the classification and consequences of crimes. For instance, while community service may be a part of the penalty for some offenses, it is not characteristic of felonies as a whole. Additionally, misdemeanors can indeed appear on a criminal background check, contradicting the claim made in one of the options. Lastly, while some felonies can result in substantial sentences, not all felonies lead to mandatory life sentences, as the law allows for a range of potential penalties based on the specifics of the case and jurisdiction.