Which legal term describes an offense punishable by fine or jail time?

A misdemeanor is a legal term that refers to an offense that is less severe than a felony but still carries consequences such as fines or jail time. Misdemeanors typically involve minor crimes against individuals or property, and the penalties can include anything from monetary fines to incarceration in local jails for up to one year.

Understanding this classification is important because it helps differentiate between the levels of offenses and the corresponding legal implications. Felonies, on the other hand, are more serious offenses that can lead to longer prison sentences. Infractions and violations are often identified as lesser offenses that might incur fines but do not usually result in jail time, emphasizing the unique standing of misdemeanors in the legal system.