Understanding Texas Misdemeanor Charges
Misdemeanors are criminal offenses typically punishable by fines and jail time in a county facility rather than a state prison.
In Texas, misdemeanors are categorized into three classes:
Class A Misdemeanors
These are the most serious misdemeanor offenses, such as aggravated DWI with a blood alcohol concentration of .15% or greater, assault causing bodily injury, or theft of property valued between $750 and $2,500. Class A misdemeanors may be punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and fines of up to $4,000.
Class B Misdemeanors
These include offenses like possession of small amounts of marijuana, theft of property valued between $100 and $750, or first-time DWI offenses with no aggravating factors. Class B misdemeanors may be punishable by up to 180 days in county jail and fines of up to $2,000.
Class C Misdemeanors
These are the least severe, encompassing minor infractions like shoplifting property valued at less than $100, traffic violations, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication. Class C misdemeanors are typically punishable by fines of up to $500 and no jail time.
Beyond legal penalties, a misdemeanor conviction can impact your employment opportunities, housing applications, and more. It's crucial to address these charges promptly with the assistance of a Georgetown misdemeanor lawyer at Winters & Chidester.
Misdemeanor or Felony: Determining Factors
Some offenses may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the alleged offense and whether the defendant has prior convictions. Possessing or using a firearm, committing a crime against a police officer, or causing serious injury are examples of factors that could escalate a misdemeanor to a felony charge.
Challenging Misdemeanor Charges in Georgetown, TX
Developing an effective defense strategy is essential. If we take your case, your Georgetown misdemeanor attorney will evaluate all aspects to determine the most appropriate defense.
Depending on the circumstances, misdemeanor defenses may include:
- Lack of Intent: Arguing that there was no intention to commit a crime.
- Mistaken Identity: Proving that you were not the person involved in the offense.
- Violation of Rights: Demonstrating that law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation.
- Self-Defense: Justifying actions taken to protect oneself or others.
This is where our experience as former prosecutors can make a significant difference. Because we know what tactics law enforcement and the prosecution may use to pursue a conviction, we can develop more effective defenses to counter these.
Misdemeanor FAQ
What should I do immediately after being charged with a misdemeanor?
- Contact a qualified misdemeanor lawyer near you as soon as possible.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney.
- Keep records of all interactions related to your case.
Can a misdemeanor be expunged from my record in Texas?
In some cases, it may be possible to have a misdemeanor expunged or sealed, but this depends on the nature of the offense and your criminal history. It’s important to speak with your attorney about your options.
Is it worth hiring an attorney for a misdemeanor?
Guilt and innocence aside, you need legal representation if you’ve been accused of or arrested for any type of misdemeanor in Georgetown. You have the right to an attorney. You must exercise this right if you want to make sure your interests are protected.
Call (512) 961-4555 or contact us online for a confidential consultation with a misdemeanor lawyer in Georgetown. Hablamos español.
A Proven History Of Success
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No Charges Filed Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
We represented a woman under investigation for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and assault family violence. By demonstrating she was actually the victim and providing key evidence to authorities, we prevented any charges from being filed against her.
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Case Dismissed Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Our client was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon family violence. We were able to get the case reduced to a misdemeanor and ultimately dismissed.
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Case Rejected Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child
We represented a client charged with aggravated sexual assault of a child. By acting early, reviewing the evidence thoroughly, and providing key information to the prosecutor, we built a strong defense that led to the case being no-billed and rejected.
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Case dismissed Assault Causes Bodily Injury of a Family Member
We represented a young man charged with assault causing bodily injury to a family member. After conducting our own investigation into the alleged victim, we met with the prosecutor, and the county attorney declined to prosecute the case.
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Case dismissed Assault Family Violence
We represented a young man charged with assault family violence. By acting swiftly and conducting our own investigation, we achieved a dismissal of his case in under six months.
Why You Need a Georgetown Misdemeanor Attorney
Navigating the criminal justice system without proper legal representation can be risky. At Winters & Chidester, we bring years of experience to the table. Our background as former prosecutors gives us unique insight into how the other side operates. We leverage this knowledge to build strong defenses for our clients in Georgetown and across Williamson County. We prioritize your needs and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome.
Don't face misdemeanor charges alone. Trust the experience of a Georgetown misdemeanor defense lawyer at Winters & Chidester to guide you through this difficult time.
