Texas has harsh penalties for criminal convictions - even for misdemeanors
While it's true that the more serious the charge, the more serious the potential consequences, in Texas, even a misdemeanor conviction can have huge implications on a person's life.
- In Texas, a misdemeanor is a criminal charge that is punishable by a fine of less than $4,000 or a jail term of less than 1 year. There are three classes of misdemeanors: A, B, and C. Class A misdemeanor charges are the most serious.
- A felony is any charge that carries a sentence of more than 1 year. Felonies have classes as well: capital, first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree.
Whether a person is charged with a misdemeanor or felony, it is important for them to take swift action to protect their rights and freedom. If you've been charged with a crime in Texas, remain calm, assert your right to speak with an attorney, then remain silent. If you've been charged with a crime in Montgomery County, contact The Webb Firm, P.C., for a free consultation. We can answer your questions and explain your options.
Because understanding the law can help you protect your rights and freedom, here is an explanation of the differences between Texas misdemeanor and felony charges.
Misdemeanor charges and penalties in Texas
A misdemeanor may seem minor, but being convicted of such a crime in Texas can have serious consequences. Always take your charges seriously right from the start by consulting an experienced Conroe criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. The categories of misdemeanor charges by class in Texas include:
Class C misdemeanors
Examples:
- Theft of property less than $20.
- Assault without bodily injury.
Penalties include up to a $500 fine.
Class B misdemeanors
Examples:
- Theft of property valued at more than $20 but less than $500.
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI or DUI).
- Possession of up to 4 ounces of marijuana.
Penalties include up to 180 days in jail and up to a $2,000 fine.
Class A misdemeanors.
Examples:
- Carrying a gun without a permit.
- Burglary of property valued at more than $500 but less than $1,500.
- Theft of property valued at more than $500 but less than $1,500.
Penalties include up to 1 year in jail and up to a $4,000 fine.
Felony charges and penalties in Texas
Being charged with a felony in Texas is a serious legal matter. If you are convicted of a felony, you could spend significant time behind bars and face thousands of dollars in fines. That’s only the beginning. You could also lose your job and your reputation due to a felony conviction. That’s why you need a criminal defense lawyer.
Third-degree felony
Examples:
- Theft of property worth more than $500, less than $1,500.
- Possession of 5 - 50 pounds of marijuana.
Penalties include 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
Second-degree felony.
Examples:
- Aggravated assault.
- Theft of property worth more than $100,000 but less than $200,000.
- Reckless injury of a child.
Penalties include 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
First-degree felony
Examples:
- Aggravated sexual assault.
- Theft of property worth more than $200,000,
- Possession of more than 2,000 pounds of marijuana.
Penalties include 5-99 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
Capital felony murder
Not every murder is capital murder. There are about 10 circumstances that can lead to a capital charge, including:
- Knowing murder of a peace officer or fireman who is acting in the lawful discharge of an official duty.
- Murder in the course of committing or attempting to commit kidnapping, burglary, robbery, aggravated sexual assault, arson, obstruction or retaliation, or terroristic threat.
- Murder for hire.
- Murder of someone under 15 years old.
The penalty for capital murder in Texas is death or life without parole.
Get a lawyer who will build a winning strategy for you
Being convicted of a felony or misdemeanor can change your life forever. That’s why we want to meet with you as soon as possible to discuss the details of your case.
The Webb Firm, P.C., has decades of experience defending the rights and freedom of people accused of crimes in Conroe, The Woodlands, and throughout the Montgomery County area. If you are facing charges, you can contact us for a free case evaluation to learn more about the penalties you face and your legal options.
Put your trust in a Texas criminal defense attorney who puts your needs first. Contact us and schedule your free consultation right now.
