The Three Classes of Misdemeanors in Texas

Based in Granbury, Texas, Lori Kaspar Law, PC, is a law firm focused on criminal and juvenile defense matters. Led by a former Hood County assistant district attorney, Lori Kaspar Law, PC, represents clients charged with felonies as well as misdemeanors.

In Texas, misdemeanors are crimes carrying a punishment of up to a year in a local or county jail. They are categorized as either Class A, B, or C misdemeanors.

Class A misdemeanors carry a maximum punishment of up to a year in jail, a fine not exceeding $4,000, or both imprisonment and fine. Examples are driving while intoxicated with a BAC > 0.15, possession of controlled substances (such as Xanax) less than 28 grams, assault with bodily injury, unlawful carrying of a weapon, and theft of property valued between $750 and $2,500.

Class B misdemeanors carry a maximum jail term of 180 days, a fine of up to $2,000, or both. Examples include theft of property valued between $100 and $750, possession of less than two ounces of marijuana, driving with an invalid license (second offense) and driving while intoxicated (first offense).

Class C misdemeanors are punishable by a fine not exceeding $500. They carry no jail time. Examples include traffic violations such as speeding, driving without insurance, driving with an invalid license (first offense), possession of an open container in a vehicle, public intoxication, and theft under $100.