A Class C Misdemeanor Can Be Serious
In Texas, a class C misdemeanor charge is usually handled in a justice of the peace (JP) or a municipal court. Many people think of class C’s as speeding tickets and other moving violations. However, there are other class C charges that are much more serious.
Common Class C Alcohol or Drug Charges
Common class C alcohol or drug misdemeanor charges include the following:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Minor in Possession of Alcohol (MIP)
- Minor in Consumption of Alcohol
- Public Intoxication (PI)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (PODP)
Some Wrongly Think A Class C is Always Minor
Since a class C misdemeanor is the lowest level of criminal offense in Texas (maximum fine is $500) and there is no possible jail time, many assume that they don’t need a lawyer and these “minor” charges won’t affect them down the road. This is not true.
Possible Consequences of a Class C Misdemeanor
These offenses can have outcomes that affect your life for years to come. You can be required to pay fines (up to $500 for each offense), take classes (drug and/or alcohol-related), suffer driver’s license suspensions, be required to perform community service, and most importantly have a possible criminal conviction that will be on your record forever. Also, class C charges and convictions can and likely will show up on a background check conducted by a school, university, or potential employer.
A Skilled Attorney Can Help You Avoid a Conviction
When you have a skilled attorney representing you, there are many options available to avoid a criminal conviction on your record. You should never just go to court and pay your ticket. Our goal from day one is to always work hard to avoid you having a criminal conviction so at some point down the road you can expunge your record forever. There are options besides pleading guilty.
Smith & Vinson Law Firm Has Experience Handling Class C Charges
Smith & Vinson Law Firm has experience handling class C charges all throughout Austin and the Central Texas area. We have handled cases in Austin Municipal Court, Lakeway Municipal Court, and in municipal and JP courts in Williamson, Hays and Comal County. We have received dismissals on DUI’s, public intoxication, possession of drug paraphernalia, and minor in possession of alcohol charges.
Give us a call at (512) 359-3743 to set up a free consultation so we can discuss your case.