What constitutes a felony?

A felony is defined as a serious crime that typically carries significant penalties, often involving imprisonment for more than one year. The distinguishing feature of felonies is their severity, as they can lead to lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a range of collateral consequences, such as loss of voting rights or difficulty in obtaining employment.

In contrast, minor offenses or misdemeanors, which could involve punishments like fines or community service, do not reach the same level of severity. Other options that suggest less serious or non-violent crimes do not capture the essence of what constitutes a felony. Therefore, recognizing that felonies are serious crimes punishable by a minimum of one year in state prison aligns with standard legal definitions, making this option the correct choice.