Legal Definitions - noninfamous crime

A noninfamous crime refers to an offense that, unlike more serious felonies, does not historically or legally carry the severe social stigma or civil disqualifications (such as loss of voting rights or the ability to hold public office) associated with crimes considered "infamous." These are typically less severe offenses, often misdemeanors or minor infractions, that do not imply a fundamental lack of integrity or moral turpitude in the eyes of the law to the same extent as felonies like treason, perjury, or serious theft. The penalties for noninfamous crimes are generally less severe, often involving fines, community service, or shorter periods of incarceration, without the lasting impact on one's civil standing.

• Example 1: Parking Violation

  Imagine Sarah parks her car in a "no parking" zone for an hour while running an errand. She returns to find a parking ticket on her windshield, requiring her to pay a fine. This is a noninfamous crime because it is a minor infraction of traffic laws. It does not involve deceit, violence, or a significant breach of public trust. The penalty is typically a fine, and it does not result in the loss of civil rights like voting or the ability to hold public office, nor does it carry the severe social stigma associated with a felony.

• Example 2: Minor Noise Ordinance Violation

  Consider David, who hosts a small gathering at his apartment. The music is slightly too loud after 10 PM, leading a neighbor to call the police. The police arrive and issue David a warning or a small citation. This falls under a noninfamous crime because it's a local ordinance violation, a minor disturbance of the peace without any intent to harm or defraud. The consequence is usually a fine or a warning, and it does not affect David's standing as a citizen, his right to vote, or his eligibility for public service.

• Example 3: Littering

  Suppose Maria accidentally drops a piece of paper on the sidewalk and, distracted, walks away without picking it up. A city enforcement officer observes this and issues her a citation. Littering is considered a noninfamous crime. It's a minor public order offense that, while undesirable, does not involve moral turpitude, violence, or a threat to national security. The typical penalty is a fine, and it does not lead to any loss of civil rights or a lasting mark on one's reputation in the way that a felony would.