Which of the following best describes a felony?

A felony is best described as a serious crime for which the punishment can exceed one year in prison. This classification distinguishes felonies from lesser offenses, such as misdemeanors, which typically involve shorter sentences or fines. The seriousness of felonies includes crimes such as murder, rape, or armed robbery, which not only carry significant prison time but can also result in more severe consequences, such as loss of voting rights or difficulties in employment following conviction. Understanding this classification is essential for grasping the legal system's hierarchical structure regarding crime and punishment.