Criminal law is complicated in any state, but it is especially complicated in Texas. Texas law identifies over 1,000 different crimes. However, most crimes can be separated into two distinct categories: misdemeanors and felonies.
Misdemeanor
A misdemeanor is a violation that may be punishable with jail time and/or fines. Misdemeanors are subcategorized into three classes.
- Class A Misdemeanors – Class A Misdemeanors are the most severe of the crimes in this category and therefore carry the worst possible punishment. If convicted of a Class A Misdemeanor, you may face up to one year in county jail and a maximum fine of $4,000.
- Class B Misdemeanors – The second most serious misdemeanor is the Class B Misdemeanor. If convicted of a Class B Misdemeanor, you may face up to 6 months in a county jail and a maximum fine of $2,000.
- Class C Misdemeanors – Class C Misdemeanors carry the most lenient punishments in this category. Unlike other misdemeanors, which are prosecuted in criminal court, Class C Misdemeanors are prosecuted in justice of the peace courts or municipal courts. If convicted, you may owe a fine of up to $500. However, you won’t face any jail time for a Class C Misdemeanor unless you fail to appear in court. If you don’t appear for your court date, you may be arrested.
Felony
A felony is a more severe crime that carries heavier punishments. The Law Office of Patti J. Hightower defends clients who have been accused of committing:
- Second Degree Felony – Second Degree Felonies may be punished with 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Third Degree Felony – Third Degree Felonies carry a possible punishment of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- State Jail Felony – State Jail Felonies are the least severe felony conviction. The maximum punishment for this crime is up to 2 years in a state jail facility and a fine of up to $10,000.
Regardless of your misdemeanor or felony’s class, the severity of the specific punishment you will receive depends on your criminal history, the magnitude of the crime and the opinion of the court. A qualified Texas Criminal Law Attorney may be able to help you reduce your punishment or avoid a conviction.
Being accused of a crime, whether innocent or guilty, is a frightening experience. Here at the Law Office of Attorney Patti J. Hightower, we are prepared to offer you the compassionate, knowledgeable Huntsville Texas Attorney representation you need to deal with this overwhelming situation. Contact us today to learn more about our criminal law services.