What defines a 'felon'?

A 'felon' is specifically defined as someone who has committed a crime that is classified as a felony, which is more severe than a misdemeanor. Felonies typically carry harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and larger fines. These serious offenses include acts such as robbery, murder, and drug trafficking, among others.

This distinction is crucial in the legal system because the classification of a crime influences how it is prosecuted and what consequences it carries. Misdemeanors, on the other hand, are less severe offenses, usually resulting in lighter penalties. Therefore, the definition aligns with the legal framework surrounding criminal offenses, affirming that individuals convicted of felonies face more serious implications than those charged with lesser crimes.