What constitutes a felony in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, a felony is defined as a crime that is punishable by death or imprisonment for a term that exceeds one year. This classification encompasses a wide range of serious offenses, including violent crimes, certain theft and drug offenses, and other significant violations of the law. Recognizing the severity of felonies is important, as they carry heavier penalties compared to misdemeanors, which typically result in shorter jail sentences or fines.

The other options do not accurately summarize the definition of a felony. For instance, while theft over $100 may indeed be classified as a felony, not all theft offenses meet this threshold. Drug-related offenses include a variety of crimes, but not all are categorized as felonies; some may be misdemeanors depending on the specifics of the situation. Traffic violations, on the other hand, are generally considered misdemeanors and are not classified as felonies in Arkansas law. Thus, the correct understanding of what constitutes a felony assists in navigating Arkansas legal definitions and their implications effectively.