Facing criminal charges in Texas can be overwhelming, especially if you are unsure how offenses are classified or what penalties you may be facing. The Dallas Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC helps individuals throughout Dallas and Dallas County understand the nature of criminal charges and the potential consequences under Texas law.
Texas criminal charges are divided into different categories based on severity. Each classification carries specific penalties that may include fines, jail or prison time, probation, and long-term consequences that extend well beyond the courtroom. Understanding these penalties is essential to making informed decisions about your defense and protecting your future.
How Texas Classifies Criminal Charges
Texas criminal offenses fall into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The classification determines the possible punishment and which court will hear the case.
Misdemeanor Charges in Texas
Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but can still result in jail time and a permanent criminal record.
Class C Misdemeanors
- Least serious criminal offenses
- Punishable by fine only (no jail time)
- Common examples: traffic offenses, public intoxication, minor disorderly conduct
- Maximum penalty: fine up to $500
Class B Misdemeanors
- More serious misdemeanor offenses
- Common examples: first-time DWI, criminal trespass, possession of small amounts of marijuana
- Maximum penalty: up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000
Class A Misdemeanors
- Most serious misdemeanor level
- Common examples: assault causing bodily injury, theft of higher-value property, repeat DWI offenses
- Maximum penalty: up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $4,000
Even misdemeanor convictions in Dallas can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Felony Charges in Texas
Felonies are the most serious criminal offenses in Texas and carry significant long-term consequences.
State Jail Felonies
- Common examples: certain theft crimes, drug possession, forgery
- Penalty range: 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and up to a $10,000 fine
Third-Degree Felonies
- Common examples: felony DWI, some assault offenses, certain drug crimes
- Penalty range: 2 to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
Second-Degree Felonies
- Common examples: aggravated assault, robbery
- Penalty range: 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
First-Degree Felonies
- Most serious non-capital offenses
- Common examples: aggravated robbery, sexual assault, serious violent crimes
- Penalty range: 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
Additional Consequences Beyond Jail or Prison
Criminal penalties in Texas often include consequences beyond incarceration or fines, such as:
- Probation or community supervision
- Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
- Driver’s license suspension
- Firearm restrictions
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Difficulty securing employment or housing
- Permanent criminal record
These “collateral consequences” can impact your life long after the case is resolved.
Why Early Legal Guidance Matters
The penalties associated with criminal charges depend on multiple factors, including prior criminal history, aggravating circumstances, and how the case is handled early. An experienced Dallas criminal defense attorney can:
- Explain the exact charge and potential penalties
- Identify opportunities for charge reduction or dismissal
- Advocate for alternatives to incarceration
- Protect your rights at every stage of the case
Early legal representation often leads to more favorable outcomes.
Dallas Criminal Defense Support from Bryan Fagan, PLLC
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC represents clients throughout Dallas and North Texas facing misdemeanor and felony charges. Our Dallas Office understands Texas criminal statutes, Dallas County court procedures, and the serious consequences criminal cases can carry. We work to develop defense strategies tailored to the specific charges and circumstances of each case.
