Criminal offenses are defined by the length of their jail or prison terms. Misdemeanors are the less severe offenses and have a maximum sentence of 12 months or less. Felonies have prison sentences of greater than 12 months up to life.

If you are charged with a criminal offense, there is the possibility of incarceration.

However, a jail term is unlikely for first offenders of most crimes. Usually a person is given probation with no jail unless there is a violation of probation.