The difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Rhode Island is the maximum potential sentence. Misdemeanors are offenses punishable by up to 1 year jail. Felonies are offenses punishable by more than 1 year, often years to life in prison. Beyond the sentence, the distinction matters enormously for collateral consequences. Felony convictions trigger federal firearm prohibition under the Gun Control Act, voting restrictions during incarceration, severe employment background check impact, immigration consequences (deportation for non-citizens in many cases), and a permanent felony record. Misdemeanor convictions create criminal records but do not trigger most of these felony-specific consequences.
