By Sholdon Daniels
As a resident or visitor in Texas, you need to be aware of the different types of criminal charges that you could face in the state. Being charged with a criminal offense can have serious consequences that can impact your personal and professional life for years to come. Here, I'll provide an overview of the different types of criminal charges in Texas.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are the least severe type of criminal offense in Texas. They typically involve minor crimes that are punishable by a fine or up to one year in county jail. Examples of misdemeanors in Texas include traffic violations, disorderly conduct, and simple assault. While they are less serious than felonies, a misdemeanor conviction can still have serious consequences, such as a criminal record that can affect employment opportunities and other aspects of your life.
State Jail Felonies
State jail felonies are a type of felony offense that are less severe than other types of felonies. They typically involve nonviolent crimes that are punishable by up to two years in a state jail facility. Examples of state jail felonies in Texas include theft, drug possession, and certain types of property crimes.
Third-Degree Felonies
Third-degree felonies are more severe than state jail felonies and are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of third-degree felonies in Texas include stalking, some types of assault, and some drug offenses.
Second-Degree Felonies
Second-degree felonies are more severe than third-degree felonies and are punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of second-degree felonies in Texas include burglary of a habitation, manslaughter, and some types of sexual assault.
First-Degree Felonies
First-degree felonies are the most severe type of felony offense in Texas and are punishable by up to life in prison or a term of 5-99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of first-degree felonies in Texas include murder, aggravated kidnapping, and some types of sexual assault.
Capital Felonies
Capital felonies are the most severe type of criminal offense in Texas and are punishable by the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole. Examples of capital felonies in Texas include murder of a law enforcement officer or firefighter, and murder committed in the course of another felony offense.
Being charged with a criminal offense in Texas can have serious consequences. If it happens to you, you'll need to understand the different types of criminal charges in order to understand the potential penalties and consequences that you could face. If you are facing criminal charges in Texas, contact my office and I can help you understand your legal options and build a strong defense.
You can call me at 1-844-SHOLDON and follow me on twitter at @SholdonDaniels
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