Rockwall Attorneys Protect Clients’ Rights in Misdemeanor Cases

Trusted Texas lawyers challenge allegations brought by prosecutors

If you’ve been arrested on a misdemeanor charge in the Dallas area or anywhere throughout North Texas, do not become complacent, thinking it is only a minor offense. This isn’t a traffic ticket. A misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time and stiff fines, as well as a criminal record and reputational damage that could affect your employment, relationships and future prospects. Fortunately, the criminal defense lawyers at Grob & Associates Law Firm PC in Rockwall and Wylie can provide the robust representation you need to pursue a favorable resolution.

What Is a misdemeanor?

In Texas, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense, less severe than a felony but still carrying significant penalties. The Texas Penal Code groups misdemeanors into three categories: Class A, Class B and Class C, based on severity of the crime and other factors. These charges often involve conduct that allegedly disrupts public order or causes limited harm, such as petty theft or public intoxication.  

Most common types of misdemeanor cases

Various types of offenses are charged as misdemeanors under Texas law, including:

• Theft — Stealing property valued under $2,500 is typically a Class A or B misdemeanor.
• Driving while intoxicated — A first-time DWI with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or slightly higher is a Class B misdemeanor.
• Assault — Causing minor bodily injury or threatening harm constitutes an assault, typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor.
• Public intoxication — Appearing intoxicated in public to a degree that poses a danger can result in a Class C misdemeanor case.
• Possession of marijuana — Possessing less than two ounces of marijuana is a Class B misdemeanor in Texas.
• Trespassing — Entering private property without permission is generally prosecuted as a Class B misdemeanor.
• Disorderly conduct — Engaging in disruptive behavior, such as fighting in public, often results in a Class C misdemeanor count.

Authorities must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt to gain a conviction. Our firm closely investigates the facts to identify flaws in the prosecutor’s case. 

Legal penalties you potentially face with a misdemeanor conviction

Penalties for each class of Texas misdemeanors are as follows:

• Class C — Up to $500 in fines, no jail time 
• Class B — Up to 180 days in jail and/or a $2,000 fine 
• Class A — Up to 1 year in jail and/or a $4,000 fine 

Beyond fines and jail, a conviction can lead to a criminal record that could affect job prospects, housing, and professional licenses. Additional consequences may include community service, probation or driver’s license suspension (for DWI). Repeat offenses or aggravating factors, such as committing certain crimes near a school, can enhance penalties.

How an experienced criminal defense attorney can help

Once you’ve been accused of a misdemeanor, hiring a skillful criminal defense attorney should be your top priority. Our firm will analyze evidence, such as police reports and witness statements, to develop a strategy for attacking the prosecution’s case. For instance, we might challenge the legality of a DWI stop or question the accuracy of a breathalyzer test result. Defenses that might apply in your case include lack of intent, mistaken identity or Constitutional violations, such as searches that violate the Fourth Amendment. We negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal when warranted. Another option is deferred adjudication, which can avert a conviction if the defendant meets certain conditions. In court, we present mitigating factors, such as a clean record, to minimize penalties. Across North Texas, our attorneys are familiar with local courts and judges, and we use that knowledge to provide exceptional advocacy for the people we represent.

Contact a Texas misdemeanor defense attorney 

Grob & Associates Law Firm PC defends North Texas residents accused of a variety of misdemeanor offenses. For a consultation to discuss your legal rights and options, please call 972-777-5701 or contact us online. Our offices are in Rockwall and Wylie.