Austin Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys
Aggressive Defense Against Misdemeanor Charges in Texas
In Texas, there are misdemeanor and felony offenses. A misdemeanor charge is considered “less serious” than a felony but can still carry life-changing consequences that can affect your life. It is important to remember that not all misdemeanors are the same. For example, certain misdemeanor offenses require that your driver’s licenses be suspended; others can require that you to never possess a firearm. A misdemeanor offense can carry mandatory jail time, significant fines, and probation restrictions.
Further, a conviction comes with having a criminal record for the rest of your life. Today, background checks are more prevalent than ever. With a few simple clicks, employers, universities, and apartments can look up your criminal history. Let the Austin misdemeanor lawyers at Smith & Vinson Law Firm fight for you.
Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in Texas
In Texas, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense that is less serious than a felony but more serious than a violation or infraction. Misdemeanors are categorized into three classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C, with Class A being the most serious and Class C being the least serious.
- Class A Misdemeanor: This is the most serious misdemeanor offense in Texas. It carries a maximum punishment of up to one year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000. Examples of Class A misdemeanors in Texas include assault causing bodily injury, DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) with a prior conviction, and theft of property valued between $750 and $2,500.
- Class B Misdemeanor: This is a less serious misdemeanor offense. It carries a maximum punishment of up to 180 days in county jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000. Examples of Class B misdemeanors in Texas include first-offense DWI, possession of marijuana (2 ounces or less), and criminal trespass.
- Class C Misdemeanor: This is the least serious misdemeanor offense in Texas. It is typically punishable by a fine of up to $500, without the possibility of jail time. Examples of Class C misdemeanors in Texas include minor traffic violations, disorderly conduct, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
It's important to note that while misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they can still have significant legal consequences, including fines, probation, community service, and a criminal record. If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Texas, it's advisable to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney to understand your rights and options.
Defending Misdemeanor Cases Across Central Texas
The State of Texas aggressively prosecutes misdemeanor cases. Misdemeanor offenses such as assault, DWI, and theft are prosecuted as vigorously as certain felonies. This is why you need to mount an aggressive defense. The State of Texas is working against you. You need someone working for you. We will work for you. Smith & Vinson Law Firm represents client’s accused of misdemeanor crimes in Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Taylor, Hutto and all around the Central Texas area.
Contact our Austin misdemeanor attorneys now for a free consultation at (512) 359-3743.
Types of Misdemeanor Offenses
- A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $4,000 and / or up to 1 year in jail;
- A Class B misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 and / or up to 180 days in jail; and
- A Class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $500
Examples of some common misdemeanor charges in Texas:
- Assault
- Assault Family Violence
- Burglary of a Motor Vehicle
- Criminal Mischief
- Driving While Intoxicated
- Driving While License Suspended
- Indecent Exposure
- Minor in Possession of Alcohol
- Possession of Marijuana
- Public Intoxication
- Reckless Driving
- Shoplifting/Theft
- Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon
- Violation of a Protective Order
Why Choose Smith & Vinson Law Firm for Your Misdemeanor Case
If you have been arrested or charged with a misdemeanor offense in Austin, Travis County, Williamson County, Hays County, or any of the surrounding areas in Texas contact Smith & Vinson Law Firm.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we take your misdemeanor charges seriously and fight to protect your constitutional rights. Jarrod Smith and Brad Vinson are aggressive trial lawyers that will fight for you from day one to get the best possible resolution for your case.
Contact our Austin misdemeanor attorneys at (512) 359-3743 today for a free initial consultation.
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
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Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
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What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
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When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
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After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Charges Dismissed Sexual Assault Investigation
Our client was a Texas State student who had a bright career ahead of him. He was accused of sexual assault by a classmate and an overzealous law enforcement officer proceeded to arrest him without a thorough investigation. Our team was able to fight for our client by putting together a defense that showed that the actions between the two were consensual and that his accuser had ulterior motives. The District Attorney's Office agreed and dismissed the case.
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Case Dismissed; Charges Reduced Solicitation of a Minor
Our client was a legal permanent resident with no criminal history when he was picked up for solicitation of a minor after a sting operation. He faced serious immigration consequences if convicted of a crime of this nature. In addition, the evidence against him was substantial and he was looking at prison time.
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Case Dismissed Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon
Our client was charged with felony Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon for allegedly pulling a boxcutter out during an altercation with another man. Our client had no prior contact with law enforcement. We thoroughly investigated the other party, and found that he had a history of violence and assault.
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Case Dismissed Theft
Our client was allegedly caught shoplifting at an HEB. She had no prior arrest history, so we worked with her on proactively taking classes, which were used to her advantage during our negotiations. The client accepted a deferred adjudication on the shoplifting offense, which was ultimately dismissed.
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Cases Dismissed Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Misdemeanor Assault With Bodily Injury
Our client was accused of attacking another man on two separate occasions, once with his hands and once with a knife in our client’s home. Our client had told the man to stay away from his family because the man had made romantic advances toward his wife, but the man persisted. Our client was charged with both misdemeanor Assault and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.