Is assault with a deadly weapon classified as a misdemeanor or felony?

Assault with a deadly weapon is classified as a felony because it involves the intentional use of a weapon that is capable of causing serious bodily injury or death. This classification reflects the severity of the act, as such an assault poses a significant threat to personal safety and can have lasting consequences for the victim. Felony charges typically carry more severe penalties, including longer prison sentences and larger fines compared to misdemeanors or infractions. The legal system takes these offenses seriously due to the potential harm they can cause, both physically and psychologically, which is why they are categorized as felonies. Other classifications, like misdemeanors or infractions, pertain to less severe offenses that do not involve the same level of danger or intent.