Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: National Agricultural Statistics Service
A major offense is when someone breaks the law and commits a serious crime. This can include things like stealing, hurting someone, or doing something that is very wrong. It is different from a minor offense, which is a smaller crime that is not as serious. Sometimes, two crimes can be so similar that if someone commits one, they automatically commit the other. If someone does something that could lead to a crime, but doesn't actually do it, that is called an anticipatory offense. In some places, there are specific rules about what kinds of crimes are considered major offenses and what the punishment should be.
A major offense is a violation of the law that is considered a serious crime. It is a term used to describe criminal offenses that are more severe than minor offenses.
These examples illustrate major offenses because they are all serious crimes that carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and fines. They are considered more severe than minor offenses, such as traffic violations or minor theft.