Misdemeanor Lawyer in Erath & Hood Counties, TX

Also Defending Texans in Stephenville, Granbury, Somervell County, Comanche County, Parker County & Eastland County

A misdemeanor in Texas refers to a type of criminal offense considered less serious than a felony but more severe than an infraction. Misdemeanor convictions can affect an individual's life, impacting employment, housing, and advanced educational opportunities. It can also harm professional licensing eligibility in many careers. 

Beyond the immediate penalties, such as fines and jail time, those found guilty may encounter long-term social and financial barriers. All of these consequences can affect one’s future. An aggressive defense is critical for those accused of a misdemeanor, especially juveniles, college students, and young adults who must forge their futures without being hampered by a criminal record. 

At the Law Offices of Landon Northcutt, we understand your concerns, stress, and confusion when faced with misdemeanor charges. You may not understand Texas criminal law, the legal process, or how best to defend yourself. We provide seasoned and aggressive representation backed by 25 years of practice in the Texas courts. 

Facing a misdemeanor charge? Contact us today at (254) 355-4654 for a free consultation.

Classes of Texas Misdemeanors & Their Penalties

Texas categorizes misdemeanors into three distinct classes based on the gravity of the offense:

• Class A: The most serious with penalties, including up to a year in jail, fines up to $4,000, or both.
• Class B: May incur up to 180 days in jail, a maximum fine of $2,000, or both.
• Class C: The least serious, often resulting in a fine of up to $500 with no jail time.

Common misdemeanor offenses in Texas include but are not limited to: 

• Theft under $1000: Shoplifting or petty theft, potentially leading to fines and a tarnished reputation.
• Public intoxication: This can result in a fine of up to $500, being fingerprinted, booked, and having a mugshot taken; you will also be detained in jail until law enforcement determines you are sober. 
• Disorderly conduct: Charges could range from a Class C to a Class B misdemeanor, depending on whether the conduct involved publicly discharging or displaying a gun. 
• Simple assault: Charges can include Class A, B, or C misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances and type of victim. 
• Possession of a controlled substance: Depending on the schedule of the drug, this offense can carry significant social stigma and legal consequences, such as a Class A misdemeanor charge
• DWI first offense: Risks include driver's license suspension, increased insurance rates, fines, and possibly jail time.

Understanding Texas Misdemeanor Law

In Texas, misdemeanors are classified into three distinct categories based on the severity of the offense. The classification of the offense determines the potential penalties you could face.

• Class A Misdemeanors: These are the most serious misdemeanor offenses, and they can lead to up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $4,000.
• Class B Misdemeanors: These offenses can result in up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $2,000.
• Class C Misdemeanors: These are the least serious, typically resulting in fines up to $500 and no jail time.

Misdemeanors differ from infractions, which are minor violations that generally only result in fines, like speeding tickets. Criminal offenses, including felonies, are much more serious and carry harsher penalties.

How a Misdemeanor Charge Affects Your Future

Even a misdemeanor conviction, while less serious than a felony, can have a lasting impact on your life:

• Employment: Many employers conduct background checks, and a misdemeanor record could affect your ability to find work.
• Professional Licenses: For certain jobs, especially in fields like law, healthcare, or finance, a criminal conviction could disqualify you from obtaining or maintaining a professional license.
• College Admissions: A criminal record can influence your chances of being accepted into college or university. Some schools may also revoke scholarships based on a criminal conviction.
• Financial Aid: Federal and state financial aid programs may be affected by a criminal record, which could prevent you from receiving student loans or grants.

Steps in the Misdemeanor Legal Process in Texas

If you're arrested for a misdemeanor, it’s important to understand what steps to expect:

• Arrest: The process begins with an arrest, followed by booking and possibly being released on bond.
• Arraignment: This is when you're formally charged, and you enter a plea.
• Plea Bargaining: Your attorney may negotiate a plea deal to reduce charges or penalties.
• Trial: If no deal is reached, your case may go to trial, where a judge or jury will determine your guilt or innocence.
• Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which could include jail time, fines, or community service.

Misdemeanor cases typically take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it's contested.

Social Impact of a Texas Misdemeanor Conviction

The impact of a misdemeanor conviction can be wide-ranging, potentially leading to difficulty finding employment due to criminal background checks, loss of professional licenses or barriers to obtaining them, challenges in securing housing, as some landlords and property management companies conduct background checks, loss of eligibility for certain educational scholarships or programs, and immigration issues, including deportation for noncitizens. 

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the legal system alone can be challenging, especially when facing the complications of a misdemeanor charge. It's essential to have an experienced lawyer to protect your rights and reduce the potential negative aftermath of a conviction. 

The Law Offices of Landon Northcutt provides the legal proficiency and human support needed to guide you through the nuances of Texas law. We work aggressively to achieve the best possible outcome, recognizing that even minor charges can significantly affect your life. 

If you're facing a misdemeanor charge, it's crucial to consult with our Erath and Hood Counties misdemeanor lawyer to explore your legal options and develop a robust defense strategy.

FAQ: Misdemeanor Charges in Texas

• What is a misdemeanor in Texas?
  A misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less severe than a felony but more serious than an infraction. Texas classifies misdemeanors into three categories: Class A, Class B, and Class C, with varying penalties.
• What are the penalties for a Class A misdemeanor?
  Class A misdemeanors are the most serious and can result in up to 1 year in jail, fines up to $4,000, or both.
• Can a misdemeanor conviction be expunged from my record?
  In some cases, misdemeanor convictions can be expunged from your record after a certain period, depending on the nature of the offense. Consult an attorney to determine eligibility.
• What happens during a misdemeanor trial?
  If a plea deal is not reached, a misdemeanor case may go to trial where a judge or jury will determine whether you are guilty or innocent. If guilty, sentencing will follow.
• Will a misdemeanor affect my employment opportunities?
  Yes, many employers conduct background checks, and a misdemeanor conviction could negatively affect your ability to get a job, especially in fields that require background checks.
• Can I receive probation instead of jail time for a misdemeanor?
  Yes, depending on the severity of the offense, you may be eligible for probation instead of jail time. Your attorney can help negotiate this option.
• What should I do if I am arrested for a misdemeanor in Texas?
  If you're arrested for a misdemeanor, it is essential to remain calm, avoid self-incrimination, and contact an experienced lawyer to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Need help with a misdemeanor case? Contact us now at (254) 355-4654 to discuss your options.