A misdemeanor is a crime for which the maximum possible punishment is incarceration for one year or less. Generally, misdemeanors are crimes that are less violent or involve lower levels of harm than felonies do.

Misdemeanor crimes include crimes such as:

• 1st offense possession of marijuana
• simple battery
• theft under $300
• minor weapons offenses
• domestic violence

In New Orleans most municipal crimes are classified as misdemeanors as well, and are handled in New Orleans Municipal Court. These crimes include:

• public intoxication
• disturbing the peace
• alcohol in a motor vehicle
• criminal trespass
• failure to pay for food or beverage
• soliciting for prostitutes
• less severe battery cases

The legal procedures for misdemeanors are usually simpler than for felonies, the penalties less severe and the long-term consequences less harsh.

• Penalties typically include fines, property forfeitures or incarceration in a jail for one year or less.
• There is no right to a jury for a misdemeanor.
• Court procedures may be more relaxed than those for felonies.
• Long-term consequences are normally less severe than those of felonies.
• Those convicted of misdemeanors retain the right to vote.