Common Offense
/ˈkɒmən əˈfɛn(t)s/
Definitions
- (n.) A violation of a law or regulation that is not classified as a felony, typically punishable by a fine or imprisonment for less than one year.
Jaywalking is often considered a common offense with minor penalties.
Forms
- common offenses
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term typically distinguishes lesser crimes from felonies, useful in criminal law to categorize offenses by severity and penalty.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.