Substantive Laws

Felonies result from the violation of substantive laws that establish the legal relationships among members of a society or between people and the state. Whenever a person disrupts this legal relationship, then a crime has been committed.

Felony Violations

When violent, property and drug offenses are committed, many times they are considered felonies. These felony violations include murder, rape, grand theft, robbery, illegal drug distribution and use, and arson. Many felons have been sentenced for committing one or more of these types of crimes.

Prisons

Since most felonies carry more than a year of prison time, many convicted felons can be found in federal or state prisons. Some felons serve their sentences in jails.

Degrees

Felonies are usually classified by the seriousness of a crime. For example, first-degree felonies carry long sentences; most felons convicted under this degree usually receive one to 10 years.

Civil Problems

Many felons lose many civil rights as a part of their punishment for committing felonies. In some cases, a felon can have their civil rights restored after being released from the justice system.

Source:

US Department of Justice

Legal Dictionary