Austin Misdemeanor Defense Attorneys

Aggressive Defense Against Misdemeanor Charges in Central Texas

In Texas, crimes are classified as either misdemeanor or felony offenses. While misdemeanors are considered “less serious” than felonies, they can still carry life-changing consequences, from jail time to thousands of dollars in fines. Additionally, being convicted of a misdemeanor can lead to certain administrative penalties. For example, certain misdemeanor offenses result in the automatic suspension of your driver’s license; others can prohibit you from ever owning, buying, or possessing a firearm.

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, landlords, and others can look up your criminal history. 

If you’ve been arrested for or charged with a misdemeanor, let the Austin misdemeanor lawyers at Smith & Vinson Law Firm fight for you.

Call (512) 359-3743 or submit a secure contact form to get started with a free and confidential consultation.

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.

Examples of Misdemeanor Offenses

Examples of some common misdemeanor charges in Texas include:

• Simple assault
• Domestic violence
• Burglary of a motor vehicle
• Criminal mischief
• Driving while intoxicated
• Driving on a suspended license 
• Indecent exposure
• Minor in possession of alcohol
• Possession of marijuana (less than 2 ounces)
• Public intoxication
• Reckless driving
• Shoplifting/theft
• Unlawful carrying of a weapon
• Violation of a protective order (AKA restraining order) 

Penalties for Different Classes of Misdemeanors

Each type of misdemeanor carries its own set of criminal penalties and administrative consequences. 

These include:  

• 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.

Do You Need a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor Charge?

Facing a misdemeanor charge can be a daunting experience. While misdemeanors are generally considered less severe than felonies, they still carry significant consequences that can impact your life in various ways. Still, many individuals wonder if they need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge. The short answer is yes, having legal representation can be highly beneficial.

Misdemeanor charges can result in penalties such as fines, community service, probation, and even jail time. Additionally, a conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, which can affect your employment prospects, housing opportunities, and personal reputation. Given these potential repercussions, it's crucial to have a skilled attorney by your side to navigate the legal process and advocate for your best interests.

How an Austin misdemeanor attorney can help: 

• Legal Counsel and Guidance: First and foremost, an attorney can offer personalized advice on the specifics of your case, helping you understand the charges against you and the potential outcomes. They can also identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case, which could lead to reduced charges or even dismissal.
• Negotiation with Prosecutors: An experienced lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to seek plea bargains or alternative sentencing options that might be more favorable than the standard penalties. For instance, they may be able to secure probation instead of jail time or arrange for community service in lieu of a hefty fine.
• Ensure Procedural Tasks Are Carried Out: Legal procedures can be complex and filled with technicalities that are challenging for someone without legal training to navigate. An attorney ensures that all paperwork is filed correctly and that you meet all deadlines, preventing procedural errors that could negatively impact your case.

Defending Misdemeanor Cases Across Central Texas

The state of Texas aggressively prosecutes misdemeanor cases. In fact, many misdemeanor offenses, such as assault, DWI, and theft, are prosecuted as vigorously as some felonies. This is why you need to mount an aggressive defense. 

The State is working against you; you need someone working for you. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we represent clients accused of all types 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 at (512) 359-3743 now for a free consultation.