There are three levels of offenses in New York State. The lowest form of offense is a violation of law. This is not considered a crime and does not become a part of one’s permanent criminal record. A common offense of this type is Penal Law section 240.20-Disorderly Conduct. Violations of law carry a maximum penalty of up to 15 days jail.
The two levels of criminal offenses in New York are Misdemeanors and Felonies. Misdemeanors fall into two types of categories. There are “A” Misdemeanors and “B” Misdemeanors. An “A” Misdemeanor is more serious and allows for a sentence of up to one (1) year in jail. “B” Misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of up to 90 days jail.
Felony cases are the most serious and sentencing is based on a number of factors. Each felony is classified from an “E” Felony, the least serious, to an “A-1” Felony, the most serious. The maximum sentence is determined on the nature of the offense and the defendant’s prior criminal history.
