In the state of Texas, criminal offenses are divided into two main categories:
*Felonies
*Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are essentially lesser crimes than felonies and are also divided into three different classes based on both how severe the punishment is and how serious the offense is. Misdemeanor charges should always be taken seriously due to the fact that having one of these on your record can negatively impact your life going forward..
Class C misdemeanors are the least serious type of offense in Texas, as this type of conviction only carries a punishment of a fine up to $500. The judge may also choose to add on community service. Here are some of the most common types of Class C misdemeanors:
*Traffic offense
*Disorderly conduct
*Public intoxication
*Passing bad checks
*Simple assault
*Criminal trespass
*Gambling
*Jumping bail
*Leaving a child unattended in a vehicle
*Shoplifitng
*Possessing alcohol in a motor vehicle
*Driving under the influence (if a minor)
*Minor possession of alcohol/tobacco
Here are some basic examples of Class B misdemeanors, which are more serious than Class C’s and can carry a fine of up to $2,000 and/or a 180-day jail sentence:
*First DWI offense
*Harassment
*Prostitution
*Terroristic threatening
*Criminal trespass
*Evading arrest while on foot
*Making false reports to police/911
*Enticing a child
*Non-payment of child support
*Indecent exposure
*Vandalism
*Minor drug possession
There are also Class A misdemeanors, which are the most serious in Texas. These carry punishments including a fine of up to $4,000 and/or a jail sentence of up to one year. A community supervision sentence of up to two years or for three years with an extension.
Here are some examples of Class A misdemeanors:
*Second DWI offense
*Assault with bodily injury
*Robbing a vending machine or vehicle
*Possessing two to four ounces in marijuana
*Unlawfully carrying a weapon
*Promoting gambling
*Violating a protective order
*Animal cruelty
*Perjury
*Public lewdness
*Resisting arrest
*Unlawful restraint
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