Most misdemeanors are lesser crimes that may be punished by a fine and jail time. There are Class A, B, and C misdemeanors in Illinois, with Class A being the most serious.
Felonies are more severe crimes punished by heavier fines and terms in state prison. They are divided into five types in Illinois: Class X, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, and Class 4, with Class X being the most severe.