What are the Most Common Types of Misdemeanors in Texas?
Misdemeanors are crimes that are considered less serious than felonies, but they can still have significant consequences for those charged with or convicted of them. In Texas, misdemeanors are divided into three categories: Class A, Class B, and Class C. In this blog post, we’ll cover the most common types of misdemeanors in Texas and what the potential penalties are for each.
Class A Misdemeanors
Class A misdemeanors are the most serious type of misdemeanor in Texas, and they can result in fines of up to $4,000 and up to one year in jail. Examples of Class A misdemeanors in Texas include assault causing bodily injury, theft (over $750 but less than $2,500), and driving under the influence (second offense).
Class B Misdemeanors
Class B misdemeanors are considered less serious than Class A misdemeanors, but they can still result in fines of up to $2,000 and up to 180 days in jail. Examples of Class B misdemeanors in Texas include possession of marijuana (up to two ounces), theft (over $50 but less than $750), and driving under the influence (first offense).
Class C Misdemeanors
Class C misdemeanors are the least serious type of misdemeanor in Texas, and they typically result in a fine rather than jail time. Examples of Class C misdemeanors in Texas include traffic violations (such as speeding and running a red light), disorderly conduct, and minor in possession of alcohol.
Other Common Misdemeanors
In addition to the main categories of misdemeanors in Texas, there are other common misdemeanors that can have serious consequences. These include domestic violence, shoplifting, and trespassing. Depending on the circumstances and severity, these charges may fall into Class A or B categories.
Potential Consequences of a Misdemeanor
While misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies, they can still have significant consequences. These may include fines, probation, community service, and even jail time. In addition, a misdemeanor conviction, like a charge for petty theft, can stay on your criminal record and impact your ability to get a job or housing in the future. It’s important to take any criminal charge seriously and seek the advice of a qualified attorney.
Contact a Plano Attorney for Misdemeanor Charge
In conclusion, understanding the different types and potential consequences of misdemeanors in Texas can help you make informed decisions when faced with criminal charges. Whether you’re dealing with a traffic violation or a more serious offense, it’s always best to seek the advice of an experienced misdemeanor criminal defense attorney, who can help you protect your rights and mitigate the potential consequences of a conviction. Contact the Plano misdemeanor attorneys at The Fox Firm today to schedule a consultation.