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Felony and Misdemeanor Penalties in Texas

• Posted by Jeff Kennedy March 13, 2018 - Filed in Law News - 1,659 views

  In Texas, as in other states, criminal offenses are divided into misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are considered less serious, and these offenses may be punishable by fines or up to twelve months in jail. Conversely, felonies are considered more serious and carry prison terms of more than twelve months.

   

  Misdemeanor Penalties in Texas

  Misdemeanor charges in Texas are classified as either Class A, Class B, or Class C. The most serious is Class A, with Class C being the least serious. The penalties are as follows:

  • Class A misdemeanors carry a maximum penalty of a $4,000 fine, up to twelve months in jail, or both.
  • Class B misdemeanors are punishable by a maximum fine of $2,000, up to 180 days in jail, or both.
  • Class C misdemeanors are punishable by only a fine of up to $500, and the court is not allowed to pass a jail sentence for these crimes.

   

  Felony Penalties in Texas

  Felonies are more serious crimes, which can be punished by six months to ninety-nine years in prison, fines of up to $10,000, and even the death penalty. Felonies are classified as follows:

  • Capital felonies are punishable by the death penalty.
  • First-degree felonies are punishable by five to ninety-nine years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both.
  • Second-degree felonies are punishable by two to twenty years in prison, a maximum fine of $10,000 or both.
  • Third-degree felonies are punishable by two to ten years in prison, a maximum fine of $10,000, or both.
  • State jail felonies are punishable by six months to two years in jail, a maximum $10,000 fine, or both.

   

  Criminal Defense Attorney in Fort Worth, Texas

  Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony penalties, you should know that any charge has the potential to affect you long term. If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side to help you get the best possible outcome.

  Don’t just accept the charges. Let the Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy examine the details of your case and determine if you have other options available. Call us at 817-605-1010 or fill out the form on our website to get started.