There are three different categories of misdemeanor crimes under Texas law: Class A, Class B, and Class C misdemeanors. The most severe charge is a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction for a Class A misdemeanor can result in one year in jail, a $4,000 fine, or both. Common examples of Class A misdemeanors include assaults that result in bodily injury, resisting arrest and the theft of goods worth between $750 and $2,500. A Class A misdemeanor conviction can make it more challenging for you to get a job. It also may prevent you from possessing firearms or obtaining a license to carry or holding some professional licenses.
A Class B misdemeanor is the next most serious category of misdemeanor crimes. A conviction for a Class B misdemeanor carries the potential for up to six months in jail, a $2,000 fine, or both. Crimes that may constitute Class B misdemeanors include driving while intoxicated, prostitution, and criminal trespass. A conviction for Class B misdemeanor may have collateral consequences, as well, such as impacting your ability to obtain a license to carry a firearm, drive, vote, and exercise other rights, depending on the circumstances.
The least severe category for misdemeanor offenses is the Class C misdemeanor. A conviction for a Class C misdemeanor does not create a possibility of jail time. Instead, individuals will face a maximum fine of $500. Class C misdemeanors include speeding, public intoxication, and assault by contact. Although you cannot face jail time for a Class C misdemeanor, you still can face an arrest on most Class C misdemeanor charges, except for speeding, texting while driving, and open container violations. Pleading guilty to a Class C misdemeanor, however, does create a criminal record. In many cases, you might be able to negotiate a solution to the charge that results in an expunction of the criminal records, as these offenses do not tend to be severe.
The criminal defense lawyers of Peek Law Group have handled the cases of countless individuals who are facing criminal charges in the state of Texas. We are here to protect your rights and advocate on your behalf. As a result, we will strive to get the best outcome possible in your case. Call our office today at (512) 359-3362 to set up an appointment with our criminal defense attorneys.