Texas Misdemeanor Classes and What They Mean

Texas misdemeanors are punishable by a term of up to one year in a local or county jail. There are many types of misdemeanors that are divided into three classes of varying gravity. These classes influence the penalties the court can impose. For example, Class C misdemeanors carry less severe penalties than Class A misdemeanors. Learning about the different classes of Texas misdemeanors is step one if you’re facing misdemeanor charges.

Class A misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $4,000 or both. This is the most serious of the misdemeanor classes. Second DWI offense and resisting arrest are examples of common Class A Texas misdemeanors.

Class B misdemeanors are punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000 or both. First-offense DWI and theft of between $100 and $750 are examples of Class B misdemeanors.

Class C Misdemeanors

Class C misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of up to $500 and no jail time. Many traffic tickets, public intoxication and minor DUI are examples of Class C misdemeanors. Though they come with no jail time, Class C misdemeanors are still well worth fighting.

Misdemeanors may be less serious than felonies, but don’t let that fool you. You should always take a misdemeanor charge seriously. A Texas misdemeanor will show up on your criminal record, a record that will follow you the rest of your life. Also, remember that not all misdemeanors are created equal. Some are more serious than others because they can result in longer jail terms or higher fines. That said, never enter a plea—even to a Class C misdemeanor—without first consulting with an experienced Dallas-Fort Worth criminal defense attorney. You have a right to and should fight any misdemeanor, no matter the class or potential penalty. An attorney can explain what could happen in your case and advise you on how to best proceed forward.

If you’re facing misdemeanor charges in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, JBabb – Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help. JBabb – Criminal Defense Attorneys will advise you on the best course of action. With law offices in Dallas and Denton, our attorneys provide compassionate legal services to Dallas, Collin, Denton, Ellis, Rockwall and Tarrant counties. Our experienced attorneys handle a wide variety of criminal cases including DWI/DUI , assault/family violence, and other misdemeanors and felonies. Call (214) 329-9433, email team@jbabblaw.com, or fill out our confidential online form to schedule a consultation with a Dallas-Fort Worth criminal defense attorney.

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