Under Utah law, a misdemeanor is considered a less serious offense than a felony, and generally involves fines and/or jail time of up to one year. Felonies are more serious offenses that involve larger fines and potential prison sentences of one year or more. The classification of an offense as either a misdemeanor or felony usually depends on the severity of the crime, any prior convictions, the age of the defendant, and/or if weapons were used during the alleged violation.