Misdemeanor in New York
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
New York misdemeanors carry up to one year jail; some carry only fines or conditional discharge.
How New York treats Misdemeanor
New York defines misdemeanors as crimes punishable by up to one year in jail and/or fines, following the general standard. However, New York also allows judges to impose conditional discharge or unconditional discharge for certain misdemeanors, effectively avoiding jail time and sometimes avoiding a permanent conviction record. Violations (lesser infractions) carry up to 15 days jail and are not crimes under New York law.
The general definition of Misdemeanor
A less serious crime punishable by up to one year in jail and/or fines.
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less severe than a felony. Typical punishments include jail time of up to one year, fines, or both, depending on the specific crime and jurisdiction. Common misdemeanors include shoplifting, simple assault, disorderly conduct, and driving with a suspended license. While less serious than felonies, misdemeanors still create a criminal record and can affect employment and housing.
Read the full Misdemeanor entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in New York.