A misdemeanor in the State of Texas is generally classified as an offense that has a standard sentence of less than one year of potential jail time barring certain exceptions such as repeat offenses and crimes where the victim was intentionally targeted based on the offenders bias toward a specific group.

While less severe than a felony, a misdemeanor is still a very serious offense and quality legal representation is necessary to achieve a good outcome.

Misdemeanors are grouped into several classes; Class A, Class B, and Class C.

Class A Misdemeanor

A class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in county jail. Additionally you may be forced to pay a fine of up to $4,000.

Examples of class A misdemeanors are:

• Cruelty to an animal (first offense - starve or abandon)
  
• Assault (by causing bodily injury)
  
• Stalking (initial offense)
  
• Criminal trespass (habitation)
  
• Deadly conduct (not with a firearm)
  
• Prohibited weapon (brass knuckles or switchblade for example)
  
• Burglary of a vehicle
  
• DWI (second conviction)
  
• Theft/Criminal mischief of $500 or more

Class B misdemeanor

A class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to 180 days in county jail. Additionally you may be forced to pay a fine of up to $2,000.

Examples of Class B misdemeanors are:

• Terroristic threat
  
• Criminal trespass (not in a habitat)
  
• False report to peace officer
  
• Harassment
  
• Disorderly conduct (discharge/display firearm)
  
• DWI (first offense)
  
• Theft/Criminal mischief of $50 or more

Class C Misdemeanor

A Class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine up to $500.

Examples of Class C misdemeanors are:

• Assault (threatens bodily injury or causes offensive or provocative contact)
  
• Theft/Criminal mischief of less than $50
  
• Issuance of a bad check
  
• Bail jumping
  
• Gambling

Arguably the most devastating effects of a misdemeanor conviction are the supplementary repercussions of having a criminal background. Having a misdemeanor on your record can negatively impact your life by limiting employment and negatively branding you as a criminal.

Grossman Law Offices approaches every misdemeanor case with the intention of preserving your good name by keeping the offense off of your record.

From the moment you contact Grossman Law Offices, we begin to formulate a defense strategy to preserve your freedom. Armed with a full comprehension of Texas misdemeanor offense laws, the Texas defense attorneys Grossman Law Offices will fight to preserve your rights and freedom.

Related articles:
Types of probation
Theft cases in Dallas

Questions answered in this article:
What are the differences between classes of misdemeanors?
Will a misdemeanor conviction stay on my record?