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Criminal Charges & Penalties in Texas

Criminal Charges & Penalties in Texas

Facing criminal charges in Texas can be intimidating, especially if you are unfamiliar with how offenses are classified and what penalties you may be facing. The Austin Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC helps individuals throughout Austin and Travis County understand the charges brought against them and the potential consequences under Texas law.

Texas criminal charges are divided into categories based on severity, and each carries specific penalties that may include fines, jail or prison time, probation, and long-term consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. Understanding these classifications is essential to protecting your rights and making informed decisions about your defense.

How Texas Classifies Criminal Charges

Texas criminal offenses fall into two primary categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The classification of the charge determines the possible penalties and the court in which the case is handled.

Misdemeanor Charges in Texas

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but can still carry serious consequences, including jail time and a permanent criminal record.

Class C Misdemeanors

  • Least serious criminal offenses
  • Punishable by fine only (no jail time)
  • Common examples include traffic violations, public intoxication, and minor disorderly conduct
  • Maximum penalty: fine up to $500

Class B Misdemeanors

  • More serious misdemeanor offenses
  • Common examples include first-time DWI, criminal trespass, and 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 include assault causing bodily injury, theft of higher-value property, and repeat DWI offenses
  • Maximum penalty: up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $4,000

Even misdemeanor convictions can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.

Felony Charges in Texas

Felonies are the most serious criminal offenses in Texas and often carry long-term consequences.

State Jail Felonies

  • Examples include certain theft offenses, drug possession, and forgery
  • Penalty range: 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and a fine up to $10,000

Third-Degree Felonies

  • Examples include felony DWI, certain assault offenses, and some drug crimes
  • Penalty range: 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000

Second-Degree Felonies

  • Examples include aggravated assault and robbery
  • Penalty range: 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000

First-Degree Felonies

  • Most serious non-capital felonies
  • Examples include aggravated robbery, sexual assault, and serious violent crimes
  • Penalty range: 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a fine up to $10,000

Additional Consequences Beyond Jail or Prison

Criminal penalties in Texas often extend beyond incarceration or fines. A conviction may also result in:

  • Probation or community supervision
  • Mandatory counseling or treatment programs
  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Firearm restrictions
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens
  • Difficulty obtaining employment or housing
  • A permanent criminal record

These collateral consequences can affect your life long after the case ends.

The penalties associated with criminal charges depend on many factors, including prior criminal history, aggravating circumstances, and how the case is handled early on. An experienced Austin 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 involvement of legal counsel often leads to more favorable outcomes.

Austin Criminal Defense Support from Bryan Fagan, PLLC

The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC represents clients throughout Austin and Central Texas facing misdemeanor and felony charges. Our Austin Office understands Texas criminal statutes, Travis 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.