There are many legal services available in the Bexar County area to help those facing criminal or DWI charges. A conviction for drunk driving may have devastating effects on a person’s personal and professional life. Time limits apply when responding to DWI accusations, and you can avoid having your license revoked by contesting a final conviction in court before these time limits expire.
It is essential to seek legal help if you’re in Bexar County and need advice on handling a petty offense charge. A lawyer will represent you in court and assist you in every way possible.
The Texas Definition of Offenses
The state of Texas uses determinate sentencing, which means that criminal penalties are established according to predetermined sentencing guidelines. Many factors, including the defendant’s age, prior record of convictions, and the nature of the alleged violation, determine whether criminal charges will be filed and what punishments will be imposed in Texas state courts. Crimes in Texas are classified from most to least severe by degree, starting with capital felonies and moving down through first-degree, second-degree, third-degree, and state jail felonies.
Misdemeanors are the least severe category of criminal charges. Classifications of misdemeanors are made according to their relative seriousness. The most severe misdemeanors are classified as Class A, Class B, and Class C. In Texas, those who commit misdemeanors do not forfeit their constitutional protections.
The Difference between a Felony and a Misdemeanor
To be considered a felony, the alleged offender must be accused of a serious crime and if convicted, serve at least one year in jail. Though less serious, a Class A misdemeanor can also carry a sentence of up to one year. While penalties for misdemeanors generally tend to be less severe than those for felonies, avoiding any charge is preferable since even a misdemeanor may have lasting consequences.
Types of Petty Offenses People Can Be Charged With in Bexar County
Petty Offenses are the lowest levels of crime.
- Indecent exposure
- Shoplifting
- Gambling
- Public intoxication
- Disorderly conduct
- Possession of alcohol by a minor
Misdemeanor Classes in Texas
Crimes punishable by less than a year in county prison are considered misdemeanors in the state of Texas. Penalties for misdemeanors vary depending on the category under which they reside.
Class C
Offenses classified as Class C misdemeanors in Texas have the least severe penalties. However, a Class C misdemeanor conviction may still remain on your record indefinitely.
As the name implies, Class C offenses are lesser in nature and generally only result in monetary penalties. If you face conviction on a Class C misdemeanor, you will probably have to pay a fine of $500. The following are all considered Class C misdemeanors:
- Public intoxication
- Intoxicated driving by a minor
- Underage drinking
- Shoplifting
- Assault and battery
Class B
A Class B misdemeanor is a lesser offense than a Class A but more severe than a Class C. If convicted of a Class B misdemeanor, you can spend up to 180 days in county jail or pay a maximum fine of $2,000. The following are all considered Class B misdemeanors:
- Driving while intoxicated )1st Offense)
- Pedestrian evasion of arrest for a criminal offense
- Marijuana possession of under 2 ounces
- Harassment
- Prostitution
- Exposure to Indecent Material
Class A
In Texas, Class A misdemeanors carry the harshest penalties. Class A misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of one year in county prison or a maximum fine of $4000. The following are all considered Class A misdemeanors:
- Driving while Intoxicated (2nd Offense)
- Contempt of a restraining order
- Intentional physical harm
- Theft of a Motor Vehicle
- Forced confinement contrary to the law
- Resisting arrest
- Abuse inside the home
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Harmful drug possession (over 2 ounces, but less than 4 ounces of a scheduled substance)
- Assault of a family member, resulting in physical harm.
Can Petty Offenses Leave a Criminal Record?
Any criminal conviction, even misdemeanors, can remain on a criminal record indefinitely. Any criminal record can affect future employment and education opportunities. The consequences of a criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, may be significant and should be taken seriously at any stage.
It can be challenging for you to acquire a job. You may not enroll in or graduate from higher education or join the armed forces. You can have difficulty finding a place to live, even if you try to rent.
Petty Offense Sentences
You should be aware that these petty offenses can still land you in jail, even though they may be relatively minor. In cases of petty offenses, a person’s time spent behind bars usually won’t exceed six months. For petty offenses, community service is often part of the penalty. Sometimes a judge will impose a monetary penalty. In most cases, the penalty won’t exceed $5,000, but that’s hardly chump change.
For minor offenses, defendants may go before a judge but not get a jury trial. Understanding the repercussions of entering a guilty plea, accepting a plea deal, or admitting guilt to a lesser offense is crucial. If the prosecution offers the accused a plea deal, a lawyer may advise them on the best way to proceed.
A Lawyer Can Help You When Faced With a Petty Offense
If you are facing a petty offense charge, it is essential to seek legal help from a qualified lawyer and ensure that you get the best defense. Even a minor infraction can have significant consequences, such as loss of employment or a damaged driving record. Seeing an attorney is a good idea if you face petty offense charges. A lawyer can defend you if you face misdemeanor charges in Bexar County.
Through their knowledge and expertise, a lawyer will assist you in navigating the legal system. With the guidance of a knowledgeable legal team, you’ll be able to weigh your choices and provide a solid defense given your case’s potential outcomes.
