A felony crime is a serious offense punishable by a heavy sentence. The punishment is usually imprisonment but, in certain murder cases, the punishment could be death. Felonies are more serious crimes than misdemeanors. However, the same offense could be considered either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on its degree. Petty larceny, which is stealing an item worth less than a certain dollar amount, is a misdemeanor. However, stealing an item over that dollar amount is considered grand theft, which is a felony. Some examples of common felonies are grand theft, burglary, robbery, kidnapping, and some drug offenses. If you are convicted of a felony you will lose many of your civil rights. You will not be eligible to vote and you will not be eligible to run for public office. Some jobs will require certain bonding or insurance coverage before you can obtain the job. Many insurance companies will refuse to bond convicted felons and, therefore, even though you are not barred by law from certain jobs, you may find it difficult to obtain the job because of insurance or other requirements. For more information on felony cases, consult with an attorney.