Criminal offenses in Texas are generally classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. The severity of the charge affects the possible penalties, the court process, and the long-term consequences a person may face after the case is over.
Misdemeanor Charges
Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, but they should not be treated lightly. Depending on the offense and the person’s record, a misdemeanor can carry fines, probation, community service, license consequences, or up to one year in county jail.
Common misdemeanor cases include lower-level theft, simple assault allegations, disorderly conduct, criminal trespass, or a first DWI charge. In theft cases, for example, the level of the charge often depends on the value of the property involved. A shoplifting allegation involving a small amount of merchandise may be charged differently than a theft case involving property worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.
The facts matter. A charge that sounds minor at first may become more serious if there are prior convictions, allegations involving family violence, use of a weapon, injury to another person, or other circumstances that affect how the offense is filed. Such factors can turn a misdemeanor into a felony.
Felony Charges
Felonies are more serious criminal charges and result in more than a year of prison time, higher fines, and longer-lasting consequences. A felony conviction can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, firearm rights, immigration status, and other parts of a person’s life.
Examples of felony charges include aggravated assault, robbery, burglary, drug trafficking or delivery allegations, felony DWI, and certain theft offenses involving higher-value property. Some offenses may also become felonies because of a person’s prior record. For example, repeat theft allegations, repeat DWI allegations, or a new charge filed against someone with prior felony convictions can raise enhancement issues that affect the possible punishment range.
Because Texas criminal charges can depend on the facts, the value of property involved, the person’s prior record, and the way prosecutors file the case, it is important to understand exactly what charge you are facing. A Texas criminal defense lawyer can review the allegations, explain the potential consequences, and help you understand your legal options.
