Same name, different sentence
What is a gross misdemeanor?
A gross misdemeanor is one of the grades states use to rank misdemeanors by how serious they are. 3 states use the name, and each sets its own jail range and fine for it. Here is each one, from the state's own law.
Last checked October 29, 2026. General information, not legal advice.
| State | Jail | Fine | The law |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | Up to 364 daysA gross misdemeanor is any crime that is not a felony or a misdemeanor. | Up to $3,000 | Minn. Stat. §§ 609.02, subd. 4; 609.03(2)1 |
| Nevada | Up to 364 daysA statute for a specific offense can set a different penalty. | Up to $2,000 | Nev. Rev. Stat. § 193.1402 |
| Washington | Up to 364 daysJail and fine can be combined. | Up to $5,000 | RCW 9A.20.021(2)3 |
Why the same name means different things
Each state writes its own criminal code. The letters, numbers and degrees only rank crimes within that state, so a gross misdemeanor in one state can carry a very different sentence from one next door. A specific crime can also set its own range, and past convictions can raise it. For how a state grades a particular crime, see Is it a felony?
Other misdemeanor grades
Sources
Each source was opened and checked on October 29, 2026.