How Are Crimes Classified ?
Source: The Background Investigator
Date: August 30, 2006
Date: August 30, 2006
Crimes may be subdivided into several degrees based on the seriousness of the conduct involved.
For example, an assault charge may be first, second, or third-degree, depending on the extent of the injury, whether a weapon was used, the defendant's intent and the specific conduct involved.
Categorizing crimes in varying degrees is intended to ensure that "the punishment fits the crime."