When facing legal charges in Texas, it's essential to understand the difference between misdemeanors and felonies. These two categories of crimes carry different levels of severity, legal outcomes, and long-term consequences. Let's break down the key differences to help you navigate Texas law and know when to call for a criminal defense attorney.

What Are Misdemeanors?

Misdemeanors are less serious offenses under Texas law. They typically involve minor crimes and result in lighter penalties compared to felonies and don't usually require a criminal defense lawyer for minor cases. Misdemeanors are divided into three categories based on severity:

Class C Misdemeanors

·These are the least severe and often include offenses like traffic violations or public intoxication.

·Punishment: Fines up to $500 with no jail time.

Class B Misdemeanors

·Examples include first-time DWI charges or possession of small amounts of marijuana.

·Punishment: Up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $2,000, or both.

Class A Misdemeanors

·These are more serious, including charges like assault causing bodily injury or second-offense DWIs.

·Punishment: Up to one year in jail, fines up to $4,000, or both.

While misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, they can still have long-term consequences, such as a criminal record that may affect job prospects and housing opportunities.

What Are Felonies?

Felonies are more serious crimes that carry harsher penalties. They are categorized into five levels based on severity:

State Jail Felonies

·These include crimes like credit card abuse or theft of property worth $2,500-$30,000.

·Punishment: 180 days to 2 years in state jail and fines up to $10,000.

Third-Degree Felonies

·Examples include DWI with a child passenger or aggravated assault.

·Punishment: 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Second-Degree Felonies

·These charges may involve manslaughter or sexual assault.

·Punishment: 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

First-Degree Felonies

·Serious offenses like murder or aggravated robbery fall under this category.

·Punishment: 5 to 99 years or life in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Capital Felonies

·The most severe, including capital murder.

·Punishment: Life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.

Felonies have long-lasting consequences, including the loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment, and restrictions on owning firearms. 

 

Understanding the distinction between misdemeanors and felonies is crucial when dealing with legal issues in Texas.

At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we understand that facing criminal charges can feel overwhelming. With over 30 years of experience trying cases across South Texas, we're more than just your attorneys—we're your neighbors. From courthouses in San Antonio to the far reaches of South Texas, our deep ties to the community and personal connections with every client set us apart.

Whether you need a DWI lawyer, a criminal defense attorney, or representation for more serious charges like drug or assault cases, we're here to protect your rights.

Educated and rooted in South Texas, we proudly offer 24-hour consultations and services in Spanish.

Call now to consult a trusted criminal defense lawyer in San Antonio, Texas.