Which of the following penalties applies to a person guilty of a first offense of unlicensed practice under the Skilled Trades Act?

The Skilled Trades Act establishes clear penalties for unlicensed practice within its jurisdiction. For a first offense of unlicensed practice, the penalty is structured as a misdemeanor with a maximum fine of $500. This aligns with the legislation's intent to deter unlicensed activity while still allowing for a manageable first-time offense penalty. The fine serves both a punitive and deterrent purpose, effectively encouraging compliance without imposing overly harsh penalties on individuals who may have unintentionally violated the licensing requirements.

The other options suggest significantly higher fines or felony charges, which do not match the penalties prescribed for first offenses under the Skilled Trades Act. The distinction between misdemeanors and felonies is crucial; misdemeanors are typically seen as less serious offenses, while felonies entail more severe legal consequences and societal stigma. Therefore, for a first offense regarding unlicensed practice, the appropriate penalty under the Act is indeed a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500.