Attorney
Conviction of a misdemeanor in Texas is a serious matter. While the penalties may not be as severe as those of a felony conviction, it can still change the rest of your life. In addition to steep fines and jail time, a misdemeanor conviction can also make it difficult for you to find a job and secure housing. Here is what you can expect to potentially face if you are charged and convicted of one of the three classes of misdemeanors in Texas.
What are the Three Classes of Misdemeanors in Texas?
Texas law divides misdemeanor offenses into three different classes. A Class A misdemeanor is the most severe type of Texas misdemeanor with potential penalties including a fine upwards of $4,000 and up to 1 year in a county jail. Examples of Class A misdemeanors include:
- Burglary of a vehicle
- Theft of property valued at $750, but less than $2,500
- Violating a protective order
- Criminal trespass of a home
- Perjury
- Online impersonation
Next, there are Class B misdemeanors. Potential penalties for conviction of a Class B misdemeanor includes a fine upwards of $2,000 and up to 180 days confinement in a county jail. Examples of Class B misdemeanors include:
- Theft of property valued at $100, but less than $750
- Possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana
- Making terrorist threats
- Indecent exposure
- Criminal mischief
- Obstructing a roadway
- Theft of property valued at less than $100
- Assault by contact
- Disorderly conduct
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Public intoxication
Lastly, there are Class C misdemeanors. Potential penalties associated with a Class C misdemeanor conviction are restricted to a fine not to exceed $500. Examples of Class misdemeanors include:
As you can see, there are a range of penalties at each misdemeanor class level. Should you be convicted and sentenced for a misdemeanor offense, your actual sentence can depend on a number of factors. These factors are likely to include your previous criminal record as well as whether there are any details of your case that would merit an enhanced penalty.
Sometimes, Texas law general enhancement applies. Some offenses have enhanced penalties if you have prior convictions for the same or comparable offense. There are also certain misdemeanors found throughout the Texas Penal Code which carry enhanced penalties in the event that the defendant targeted a vulnerable individual, targeted an individual based on bias, or committed a crime in a declared disaster or evacuation zone. If an enhanced penalty is triggered, the level of the offense may increase or a mandatory minimum jail sentence may be imposed, among other consequences.
Criminal Defense Attorneys
Have you been charged with a misdemeanor crime in Texas? That charge does not need to turn into a conviction! The dedicated criminal defense team at Navarrete & Schwartz will zealously fight for you to be cleared of all charges. We are proud to serve the residence of Midland, Texas. Contact us today.