Under Article 11 of the Egyptian Penal Code, crimes are divided into three categories: felonies, misdemeanors, and contraventions (violations). Understanding which category an offense falls into is important because it determines the severity of the punishment you could face.
Felonies (Article 12) are the most serious crimes and carry penalties including capital punishment (death by hanging), permanent hard labor, temporary hard labor, or imprisonment. Misdemeanors (Article 13) are mid-level offenses punishable by detention or a fine exceeding 100 Egyptian pounds. Contraventions (Article 14) are minor infractions carrying a fine of no more than 100 Egyptian pounds.
As an expat, it is worth noting that even relatively minor-seeming actions — such as public behavior violations or permit infractions — can fall into these legal categories. If you are charged with any offense, seek legal counsel immediately, as the classification of the crime will significantly affect your rights, bail eligibility, and potential penalties.
This is general legal information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a lawyer licensed in Egypt.