A misdemeanor is a type of criminal offense that is less serious than a felony offense. The severity of a misdemeanor can vary slightly by state, but generally, any crimes with a maximum penalty of a year or less in prison are considered misdemeanor offenses. However, in some states, longer jail terms could apply. Misdemeanors can arise from many different kinds of misconduct, such as petty theft, public intoxication, simple assault, disorderly conduct, trespass, shoplifting, vandalism, reckless driving, indecent exposure, and possession of cannabis for personal use. The severity of the offense corresponds with a penalty under the first-, second-, and third-degree grades. The maximum punishment for a misdemeanor is less than that for a felony under the principle that the punishment should fit the crime. Misdemeanors are generally punished less severely than more serious felonies, but theoretically more so than administrative infractions and regulatory offenses. Typically, misdemeanors are punished with monetary fines or community service, and in some cases, jail time. Misdemeanor charges are serious, and one can still face jail time for a misdemeanor, and will be left with a criminal record that can affect future opportunities.