Hidden Consequences of a Criminal Record:  What Happens When Convicted of a Felony?  Is One Forever Branded a Criminal?

The etymology of the word “felon” is to some extent uncertain.  In Latin, fel is thought be associated with gall or poison.  Old French defines felon as an evil-doer, scoundrel, traitor, rebel, oath-breaker, and the Devil.

In early English law, a felony could be a crime punishable by death or mutilation and forfeiture of lands and goods.