Have you been charged with committing a crime in Austin, Texas? Most likely, you have no idea what awaits you. As part of the State of Texas's sentencing system, there is a distinction between crimes that constitute a misdemeanor and crimes that constitute a felony. The crime the State says you allegedly committed must fit into one of these two categories. Once they determine the category, it provides the basis for potential penalties you could deal with if the State convicts you of the crime. Remember: you are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Fight the charge.
Next, you must consider hiring a lawyer if the State has charged you with a misdemeanor. Never plead guilty to a misdemeanor without the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Former prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney Jason English has the knowledge and experience necessary to review your case, determine your options, and develop a comprehensive defense strategy.
A misdemeanor charge places you at risk of a conviction that leads to potential confinement and fines, among other penalties — not to mention a criminal record that could make a long-lasting and negative impact on the rest of your life. Consequences range from the denial of housing to forfeiting your professional license or custody of your children.
Here's an overview of what you should know about Texas misdemeanors.
Texas Misdemeanor Crimes And Penalties
Misdemeanor crimes in Texas are less serious than felony crimes. Misdemeanors are categorized into classes: Class A, B, and C. Potential penalties for any given crime correspond to the classification of that crime, outlined in Tex. Penal Code §§ 12.21-12.23.
| Jail | Fines | Crimes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class C | No jail time | Up to $500 |
|
| Class B | Up to 180 days in jail | Up to $2,000 |
|
| Class A | Up to 1 year in county jail | Up to $4,000 |
|
In many instances, the sentencing will include additional penalties, such as community supervision and treatment programs, depending on the circumstances and the charges.
Depending on the circumstances, some first-time offenders may be eligible for deferred adjudication. In this process, you agree to plead guilty or no contest before a trial, and the court accepts your plea. In exchange, you must complete probation. If you do, the State will dismiss your case, leaving you with no criminal conviction.
Experienced Austin Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Has Worked on Both Sides of the Law
As someone who prosecuted cases for over 15 years, Jason S. English understands the strategies prosecutors employ in misdemeanor cases to coerce the accused into pleading guilty. Before you plead guilty to any crime, understand your rights and explore your options for fighting the criminal charges.
Have you been accused of a misdemeanor order in Texas? It's imperative to speak to a criminal defense attorney right away. When you're dealing with a misdemeanor charge, it's not an exaggeration to say that your life depends on retaining an experienced, innovative criminal defense attorney. Attorney Jason English recognizes that your freedom depends on his legal prowess in and outside the courtroom. Contact Jason English today at (512) 454-7548 or online for an initial consultation and help with your protective order violation arrest.
