Types of Crimes Essay -- Crime Violence Felony Misdemeanor Laws Essays

Types of Crimes A crime is an act against the public good, punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both. There are two major classifications of crime. The first classification of crime is a felony. A felony is a major crime punishable by imprisonment or death. Murder, manslaughter, burglary, robbery, and arson are examples of felonies. The second major classification of a crime is a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is a less serious crime with a less severe penalty. Misdemeanors that aren’t as serious are known as petty offenses. Driving an automobile without a license, lying about your age to purchase alcohol, and leaving the scene of an automobile accident are all examples of misdemeanors. Crimes are defined by two elements. The first element is the criminal act. Every law that defines a crime must specifically explain the conduct that is forbidden by that law. The criminal act must also involve voluntary conduct. The second element is the required state of mind. The required state of mind is specified in the law that defines the crime. In this statue the mental state of mind is required. There are many different crimes that are against people. Murder is the unlawful killing of another human being. There are two degrees of murder. To be charged with the first degree of murder you must kill some one with premeditation, you use cruel torture in killing someone, and you kill someone while acting out a felony. The second degree of murder is known as mans...