Tarifa hotel The Police may charge citizens for a "civil infraction," may ticket or arrest for a"petty offense" or "misdemeanor," or arrest for a "felony". Here is a brief outline of what those terms stand for. Civil Infractions A "civil infraction" is not a crime, although a state files that sort of charge. The state in this case has to prove that you have committed a civil infraction by a "preponderance of the evidence," i.e. it is more likely than not that you actually have committed the violation of law. This is a lower degree than the "proof beyond a reasonable doubt" standard that needs to be presented in civil cases. A typical civil infraction case is decided by a judge or magistrate, without a jury. It is usually a short proceeding. Petty Offenses Some states have a class of "petty offenses," where the accused person may be judged without a jury. Usually, the punishment for a "petty offense" is a fine. However, these offenses may be criminal. It is always better to consult a lawyer if you are not sure what you are being charged with – a criminal offense or a civil infraction. Misdemeanors A "misdemeanor" is a criminal offense, and conviction usually results in a criminal record on your file. Misdemeanors are technically less serious than petty offenses, although the consequences of conviction can nevertheless be rather serious. Possible punishments for misdemeanors are imprisonment, probation, fines, and sometimes driver's license sanctions. Some misdemeanors are classified as "sex crimes". In this case, a convicted person must be registered as a "sex offender". He then has to inform the police on a regular basis of his place of residence -- this requirement may have to continue for life. Felonies Felonies are the most serious offenses of all that can ever be charged. Sometimes, the distinction between "felonies" and "misdemeanors" seems subjective. However, all of the most serious criminal offenses (such as murder, sexual assault, embezzlement, burglary, robbery, arson, and treason) are felonies.