Misdemeanor Laws in Texas

Misdemeanor Laws

Classification of Misdemeanors

• Misdemeanors in Texas are classified into three categories:
  • Class A: most severe, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000
  • Class B: punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000
  • Class C: least severe, punishable by a fine of up to $500

Common Misdemeanors

• Examples of misdemeanor offenses in Texas include:
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Assault
  • Theft (value of property stolen is less than $2,500)
  • DWI (first or second offense)
  • Possession of marijuana (less than 2 ounces)

Punishment And Sentencing

Sentencing Guidelines

• The sentencing range for misdemeanors is as follows:
  • Class A: 0-1 year in jail
  • Class B: 0-180 days in jail
  • Class C: fine only
• Judges have discretion to impose a sentence within the range

Punishment Options

• Punishment options for misdemeanors in Texas include:
  • Jail time
  • Fines
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • Deferred adjudication
  • Restitution to victims

Enhancements

• Certain circumstances can enhance the punishment for a misdemeanor offense, such as:
  • Prior convictions
  • Use of a weapon
  • Committing the offense against a vulnerable person (e.g. child, elderly, or disabled)
  • Committing the offense in a school zone or other protected area

Classification of Misdemeanors

• Misdemeanors in Texas are categorized into three classes based on severity:
  • Class A: most severe, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000
  • Class B: punishable by up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000
  • Class C: least severe, punishable by a fine of up to $500

Common Misdemeanors

• Examples of misdemeanor offenses in Texas include:
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Assault
  • Theft of property valued less than $2,500
  • DWI (first or second offense)
  • Possession of marijuana (less than 2 ounces)

Punishment and Sentencing

Sentencing Guidelines

• Sentencing range for misdemeanors:
  • Class A: 0-1 year in jail
  • Class B: 0-180 days in jail
  • Class C: fine only
• Judges have discretion to impose a sentence within the range

Punishment Options

• Available punishment options for misdemeanors in Texas:
  • Jail time
  • Fines
  • Community service
  • Probation
  • Deferred adjudication
  • Restitution to victims

Enhancements

• Certain circumstances can enhance the punishment for a misdemeanor offense:
  • Prior convictions
  • Use of a weapon
  • Committing the offense against a vulnerable person (e.g. child, elderly, or disabled)
  • Committing the offense in a school zone or other protected area

Learn about the classification of misdemeanors in Texas, including Class A, B, and C offenses, and examples of common misdemeanor offenses such as disorderly conduct and theft.