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Criminal Charges & Penalties in Texas

Criminal Charges & Penalties in Texas

Facing criminal charges in Texas can be overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with how offenses are classified and what penalties you may be facing. Texas law divides criminal charges into different categories based on severity, and each carries its own potential consequences—including fines, jail or prison time, probation, and long-term effects on employment, housing, and professional licenses.

The Houston Corporate Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC helps individuals across Houston and Harris County understand the nature of the charges against them and what penalties may apply. Knowing how Texas classifies criminal offenses is a critical first step in building an effective defense and protecting your future.

How Texas Classifies Criminal Charges

Texas criminal offenses generally fall into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The classification determines the range of penalties a court may impose.

Misdemeanor Charges in Texas

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies but can still result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Class C Misdemeanors

  • Typically punishable by a fine only (no jail time)
  • Examples include traffic offenses, public intoxication, and minor disorderly conduct
  • Maximum penalty: fine up to $500

Class B Misdemeanors

  • More serious offenses that may include jail time
  • Examples include first-time DWI, possession of small amounts of marijuana, and criminal trespass
  • Maximum penalty: up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine

Class A Misdemeanors

  • The most serious misdemeanor level
  • 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 $4,000 fine

Even misdemeanor convictions can affect employment, housing, and background checks.

Felony Charges in Texas

Felonies are the most serious criminal charges and carry long-term consequences, including prison sentences and loss of civil rights.

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 up to a $10,000 fine

Third-Degree Felonies

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

Second-Degree Felonies

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

First-Degree Felonies

  • The most serious non-capital offenses
  • Examples include aggravated robbery, sexual assault, and 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 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 securing employment or housing
  • Permanent criminal record

Understanding these collateral consequences is essential when evaluating defense options.

The penalties associated with criminal charges depend on many factors, including prior criminal history, aggravating circumstances, and how the case is handled early on. A knowledgeable Houston 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 involvement often leads to better outcomes.

Houston Criminal Defense Support from Bryan Fagan, PLLC

The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC represents clients throughout Houston and across Texas facing misdemeanor and felony charges. Our Houston Corporate Office understands Texas criminal statutes, Harris County court practices, and the serious consequences criminal cases can carry. We work to build strategic defenses tailored to the specific charges and circumstances of each case.