Texas has three levels of crimes: infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies. Most misdemeanors are punishable with fines or jail time, while more severe misdemeanor offenses include fines and jail sentence.

Unlike felonies, there are limitations on fines and jail time. Penalties will not exceed $4,000, and most sentences with imprisonment do not exceed one year. Time served will be in the local county jail or by house arrest—not the Texas state penitentiary.

There are three classes of misdemeanors—from the most serious to the least serious, including class A, class B misdemeanor, and class C misdemeanors.

The least serious of all misdemeanor crimes or minor wrongdoing, a class C misdemeanor is considered a fine-only offense—no jail time. Crimes that result in a class C misdemeanor include:

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Leaving a child unattended in a vehicle
  • Possession of alcohol in a vehicle
  • Trespassing
  • Gambling
  • Bail jumping
  • Underage driving under the influence (DUI)

The maximum fine for these crimes is $500, though the judge might review other penalties such as community service and probation or a combination of one or more punishments. When faced with a class C misdemeanor, our attorneys can offer the experience, knowledge, and resources you need to consider your options.

Does a Class C Misdemeanor in Texas Stay on Your Record?

A criminal record can impact your ability to buy a home, rent an apartment or apply for employment, among other things.

In Texas, a class C misdemeanor can be expunged from your record with the help of an experienced attorney familiar with state and federal laws and knowledge of the expungement process.

A class C misdemeanor can be removed 180 days after a person’s arrest. To qualify, a person must be acquitted of their crime, have their class c misdemeanor charges dismissed, or be pardoned by the governor if found guilty.

Alternatively, if convicted of a class c misdemeanor charge, an attorney can help petition the court for an “order of nondisclosure.”

Can an Attorney Represent Me in a Texas Class C Misdemeanor?

While a class misdemeanor as a first and only criminal offense is a minor charge, a mark on your record can hinder your future. With a criminal record, additional two-year convictions will expose you to penalties such as fines and possible jail sentence—even felonies if the crimes are serious enough or there are enough prior criminal offenses on your record.

A prior class c misdemeanor conviction also can turn into felonies. A criminal defense attorney is your best bet when navigating the criminal justice system and possibly getting your class c misdemeanor charges dropped or reduced.

We will review different strategies related to your class C misdemeanor and how a criminal defense attorney might be able to minimize the offense or get it removed. Contact us today for an initial consultation: (254) 323-5506.