Everyone is familiar with misdemeanors and felonies, but many people have probably not heard of the lowest classification of crime… infractions. In this post, we will shed some light on the subject of infractions and point out some of the most common ones that you may be committing.
What Are Infractions?
Infractions are the lowest form of crime. While you are still breaking the law when you commit one, they are usually not as serious as misdemeanors and felonies.
Misdemeanors, more serious than infractions but less serious than felonies, include crimes such as petty theft, drunk driving, vandalism, and trespassing. There are three classes of misdemeanor, Class A, Class B, and Class C, with Class A being the most serious.
Felonies are the most serious crime that you can commit and include acts such as murder, arson, and rape. There are five classes of felonies with “capital felony” being the most serious crime that you can commit. Punishments for felonies can range from fines to the death penalty.
What Are the Penalties for Infractions?
As infractions are less severe than the other two classifications, punishments reflect that. You will usually be hit with a fine and in some cases, community service. Fines will vary on the type of crime as well as which state you are in. For example, in California, the maximum fine for an infraction is $250.
Although infractions are considered less severe crimes, failure to pay the fine associated with or failure to appear in court can result in a misdemeanor, creating a whole new set of problems for you.
Types of Infractions
Speeding
Speeding is when you exceed the posted speed limit in your car. Everyone has sped at some point in their life so this is one of the most common instances of law breaking in the country. Fines for speeding depend on how much you exceeded the speed limit by and whether you are in a school or construction zone.
Jaywalking
Jaywalking is the crime of crossing a street illegally and without regard for oncoming traffic. The most common form of this is walking across a street outside of a crosswalk. Fines for this infraction can be anywhere between $20 to $50.
Parking Violations
If you have ever overstayed your time at a parking meter or parked in an area where it was prohibited, then you have committed an infraction. Fines for parking violations usually cannot exceed $75.
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If you have committed a crime that is more serious than an infraction, then you may find yourself on the wrong side of a jail cell. Nobody wants to spend more time than they have to in jail, so call the experienced and reliable bail bondsmen at Delta Bail Bonds to get you out fast. We are committed to providing bail bonds at affordable prices and in a timely manner. Give us a call today or fill out our online form to get back home!
