Is murder classified as a felony or a misdemeanor?

Murder is classified as a felony due to the severe nature of the crime and the significant penalties associated with it. Felonies are typically defined as serious offenses that can result in imprisonment for more than one year, substantial fines, or, in some jurisdictions, a possibility of capital punishment, depending on the circumstances surrounding the case.

The classification reflects society's recognition of the severity of taking another person's life, which inherently poses a great threat to public safety and welfare. As such, the legal system imposes harsher penalties to deter individuals from committing such acts.

Misdemeanors, in contrast, are less serious offenses that usually carry lighter penalties, such as fines or imprisonment for less than one year. Infractions are even less severe violations typically subject to fines without jail time. Therefore, categorizing murder as a felony is aligned with the legal framework established to address the gravity of violent crimes.