A misdemeanor is a type of criminal offense that is less serious than a felony. Misdemeanors typically involve minor harm to individuals or property and can result in penalties such as fines, community service, or short jail time, usually less than one year. Examples of misdemeanors include petty theft, vandalism, and simple assault. In many legal systems, misdemeanors are categorized into different classes, which can affect the severity of the punishment. For instance, a Class A misdemeanor may carry harsher penalties than a Class B misdemeanor. Understanding the distinction between misdemeanors and felonies is important for navigating the legal system.