What is a Felony?

A felony is a more serious criminal offense than a misdemeanor. A felony offense is potentially punishable for more than a year of incarceration and up to life imprisonment (in Michigan). Sentences for felonies, while have the potential for jail or prison time, also can include probation, fines, costs, and other requirements determined by the Court. Felony charges start out in the District Court, then will proceed to Circuit Court if the prosecution is able to establish probable cause at a Preliminary Examination with the District Court Judge. In order to prove probable cause, the prosecution has to prove that, more likely than not, a crime has taken place and it is more likely than not that the Defendant is the one who committed that crime.