Williamson County Misdemeanor Lawyers
Fighting Misdemeanor Charges in Cedar Park, Hutto & Leander, Texas
If you or someone you care about has been charged with a misdemeanor in Williamson County, reach out to Smith & Vinson Law Firm right away. Although these charges may not seem serious, the fact is, you could be facing significant criminal and social consequences. An experienced misdemeanor attorney at our firm can help you understand your rights and work to protect your future. We know how to aggressively defend against all types of misdemeanor charges, from minor drug possession to misdemeanor DWI. Our lawyers are well-versed in local laws and committed to providing the strategic defense needed to minimize the impact of these charges.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation with our Williamson County misdemeanor lawyers today by calling (512) 359-3743. We are available 24/7 to provide the legal assistance you need.
What Is a Misdemeanor in Texas?
In Texas, misdemeanors are categorized as criminal offenses that are less severe than felonies but still carry potential penalties upon conviction.
These offenses are classified into three categories:
- Class A Misdemeanors in Texas are the most serious misdemeanors. The penalties for Class A misdemeanors can include up to one year in jail, fines up to $4,000, or both.
- Class B Misdemeanors encompass offenses of moderate severity. Convictions for Class B misdemeanors can result in a jail term of up to 180 days, fines up to $2,000, or both.
- Class C Misdemeanors are the least serious crimes. Punishments for Class C misdemeanors are generally limited to fines up to $500 with no possibility of jail time.
It's important to note that even though misdemeanors carry lighter penalties than felonies, they still have significant consequences. A misdemeanor conviction can result in a criminal record, affecting employment opportunities, housing options, and professional licenses. Additionally, certain misdemeanor convictions can lead to enhanced penalties for future offenses, making it essential to take these charges seriously.
What Makes Misdemeanors Different from Felonies?
The key distinction between misdemeanors and felonies lies in the severity of the offense and the corresponding penalties upon conviction. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, typically resulting in punishments such as fines, probation, community service, or a maximum jail term of up to one year. Felonies, on the other hand, are more serious offenses that can lead to imprisonment for longer than one year, often in state prison rather than a county jail. This distinction also affects the stigma and social perception surrounding the conviction, which can have lasting implications on personal and professional relationships.
Examples of Misdemeanor Charges
Offenses typically charged as misdemeanors in Cedar Park, Hutto, Leander, and across Texas include:
- Criminal trespass
- Disorderly conduct
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Harassment
- Indecent exposure
- Minor in possession of alcohol
- Possession of marijuana, 2 ounces or less
- Prostitution
- Public intoxication
- Violating a protective order
This is not an exhaustive list; if you were charged with any of these or another misdemeanor in Williamson County, we can help. Our misdemeanor criminal lawyers urge you to seek legal representation right away, as a conviction can seriously jeopardize your future. Even minor offenses can have lasting impacts, which is why having knowledgeable representation from a misdemeanor lawyer is vital.
How Our Firm Can Help with Misdemeanor Charges
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, our team of criminal defense attorneys includes former prosecutors who bring valuable insights into the strategies employed by the prosecution. Having handled tens of thousands of cases, we possess a deep understanding of the local judicial system, enabling us to effectively tailor our defense strategies to each client's unique situation. Our dedication to protecting your rights and seeking the most favorable outcomes is unwavering.
We take pride in offering highly personalized representation to every client. We work to ensure your case receives meticulous attention, beginning with a thorough review of the evidence. Our Williamson County misdemeanor attorneys craft compelling arguments and challenge the prosecution’s position, positioning our clients in the best possible light. We are available 24/7, so you can reach us whenever you need assistance or have pressing concerns about your case.
Speak to a misdemeanor criminal attorney at our firm about your charges today. Call (512) 359-3743 or contact us online to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanors
How Can a Misdemeanor Affect My Future?
Misdemeanor convictions can have profound impacts beyond immediate penalties. They can appear on background checks, potentially affecting employment prospects. Certain convictions can restrict your rights, such as owning firearms, and can lead to increased penalties for future offenses. It's crucial to address these charges with a solid defense from a knowledgeable misdemeanor criminal attorney to mitigate long-term consequences.
Are Misdemeanor Charges Public Record in Texas?
Yes, misdemeanor charges and convictions are typically part of the public record in Texas. This means they can be accessed by potential employers, landlords, and others who perform background checks. Having a misdemeanor on your record can complicate personal and professional pursuits, emphasizing the importance of effective legal defense from a misdemeanor attorney in Cedar Park.
What Happens If I Miss a Court Date for a Misdemeanor?
Missing a court date can result in a warrant for your arrest and could lead to additional charges. The court may interpret this as evading justice, which can negatively impact the handling of your original misdemeanor charge. It's important to notify your misdemeanor criminal attorney immediately if you anticipate missing a court appearance, so they can take necessary steps to minimize legal repercussions.
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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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
911 caller reported a major rollover, single car accident. EMS and fire arrived on scene. They had to break the window to get our client out of the car. He said he had swerved to miss a deer and had been up close to 18 hours before the crash. Police later arrived on scene, spoke to our client and he admitted to coming from a bar and drinking 2 martinis.
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
Our client was pulled over for a traffic violation. Officer smelled alcohol, client admitted to consuming a few drinks. Officer also noted slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. Client performed the SFST’s (roadside tests). Officer said he failed all 3, eye test, walk and turn and one-leg stand. Officer placed client under arrest and asked him for a sample of breath and/or blood. Client refused. Officer did not get a blood warrant.
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Case Dismissed 2nd DWI
Our client was involved in a vehicle accident in La Grange where she was ejected from the vehicle and had to stay in the hospital. There was alcohol in the car, and she had prior DWIs. The ethanol levels in her blood came back at a .13 so she was charged with Driving While Intoxicated. This client was unaware that she was charged after she left the hospital which resulted in the charge of Bail Jumping. However she maintained that she had only an 8% functioning liver due and upon researching her medical hist
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault & Tampering with Evidence
Our client was involved in a verbal dispute that turned into an altercation where a firearm was discharged into the ground. The round ricocheted and grazed a party to the dispute. Our client was facing multiple felony convictions and a prison sentence.
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault Family Violence w/ Serious Bodily Injury
Our client was involved in a domestic altercation that resulted in one of the parties sustaining a very serious life -altering injury that required serious medical intervention. We took the case and approached our defense with heavy strong willed negotiations with the State.
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Rejected Pre-Indictment Aggravated Assault Strangulation/Impeding Airway Investigation