In Texas, criminal offenses are categorized into misdemeanors and felonies, with felonies being more serious than misdemeanors. Under Section 12.03 of the Texas Penal Code, there are three types of misdemeanors, which are classified according to the seriousness of the crime, with the most serious being a Class A misdemeanor.
Texas misdemeanors include:
- Class A misdemeanor
- Class B misdemeanor
- Class C misdemeanor
What are the penalties for a Class A misdemeanor in Texas? Under Section 12.21 of the Texas Penal Code, a Class A misdemeanor is punishable by:
- A fine not to exceed $4,000,
- Up to one year in jail, or
- A fine and confinement.
What types of crimes are Class A misdemeanors in Texas? Class A misdemeanors include but are not limited to: high BAC DWI offenses, assault, a second burglary of a vehicle offense, theft of property above $750 but less than $2,500, and much more.
Aren’t Misdemeanors Minor?
While misdemeanors are considered minor compared to felonies, there’s nothing minor about them. Suppose you’re convicted of a Class A misdemeanor, could you afford a $4,000 fine and spend up to a year behind bars? If you have a family and a job depending on you, a misdemeanor conviction can certainly affect them.
Possible effects of a misdemeanor conviction:
- Fines
- Incarceration
- Probation
- Community service
- Driver license suspension
- Permanent criminal record
- Stigma of a criminal record
- Housing can be denied
- You could lose employment opportunities
- Professional licenses can be denied
- Security clearance can be denied (government jobs and contracts)
- Misdemeanor will come up on background checks
- For military personnel, reduction in rank and pay grade
If you are facing misdemeanor charges, you want to avoid a conviction at all costs. A criminal record will affect your life for years to come, especially as it pertains to employment, educational, and housing opportunities. Our advice is to contact our Plano criminal defense firm and see what we can do to help you fight your charges.
Get the help you need. Contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC.