There are four levels of offenses in Minnesota. A petty misdemeanor is not a crime, and usually involves some sort of fine but does not include jail time. Felonies, Gross Misdemeanors, and Misdemeanors are crimes, with Felonies carry the most severe penalties, and Misdemeanors carrying the least severe penalties.

Category: Petty Misdemeanor
Maximum Sanction: Fine of up to $300; Not a crime because incarceration is not an allowable sanction
Examples: Most traffic violations

Category: Misdemeanor
Maximum Sanction: 90 days in jail and/or up to $1,000 fine
Examples: Driving without a license; Simple Assault (punching someone); First-time DWI; Theft of property less than $500

Category: Gross Misdemeanor
Maximum Sanction: Over one year imprisonment and/or up to maximum fine specified in law; One year in jail and/or up to $3,000 fine
Examples: Second DWI in ten years; Theft of property worth between $500-$1000

Category: Felony
Maximum Sanction: Maximum imprisonment penalties from 366 days to life imprisonment
Examples: Murder; Criminal Sexual Conduct (most); Theft of property more than $1,000