Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors in San Antonio, Texas: Understanding Your Rights and Defense

Don’t Dismiss a Misdemeanor Charge

If you’ve been charged with a crime in San Antonio or the surrounding Bexar County area, you’re likely feeling stressed, confused, and worried about your future. It’s a common mistake to assume that a misdemeanor charge is minor or insignificant simply because it’s not a felony. In Texas, a misdemeanor conviction can lead to jail time, hefty fines, a permanent criminal record, and lasting damage to your employment prospects and personal life. Facing a Class A, Class B, or even a Class C misdemeanor in San Antonio’s County Courts or Justice of the Peace courts requires experienced legal representation.

Gordon Law PLLC is committed to providing a robust defense for individuals facing criminal charges in San Antonio and throughout Central Texas. We believe that every client deserves dedicated, knowledgeable advocacy to protect their rights and their future.

The Classification and Penalties of Texas Misdemeanors

Texas law classifies misdemeanors into three categories based on the severity of the offense and the potential punishment. The penalties associated with a conviction can be severe, emphasizing why it’s critical to secure a seasoned San Antonio criminal defense attorney immediately.

• Class C Misdemeanor: This is the least serious level, often including common offenses like minor traffic violations, Public Intoxication (PI), or disorderly conduct. Penalties are limited to a fine not to exceed $500. While no jail time is involved, a conviction can still appear on your criminal record and lead to other collateral consequences.
• Class B Misdemeanor: These charges are more serious, with common examples including a first-time Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) with a BAC under 0.15, simple assault (without bodily injury), or Possession of Marijuana (POM) of up to 2 ounces. A conviction carries a maximum punishment of up to 180 days in a county jail and a fine not to exceed $2,000, or both.
• Class A Misdemeanor: The most severe misdemeanor class, often involving offenses like theft of property valued between $750 and $2,500, a second-offense DWI, or Assault Causing Bodily Injury. A conviction is punishable by a maximum sentence of up to one year in a county jail and a fine not to exceed $4,000, or both.

Beyond the fines and potential jail time, a misdemeanor conviction can result in probation, community service, required counseling, and a permanent criminal record that can affect your ability to get a job, secure housing, or apply for certain professional licenses. For non-U.S. citizens, any criminal conviction, even a misdemeanor, can have severe immigration consequences.

Common Misdemeanor Charges in Bexar County

Our firm regularly defends clients against a wide range of misdemeanor charges stemming from arrests made by the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, or Texas Highway Patrol:

• DWI (First Offense): A Class B Misdemeanor with separate driver’s license implications.
• Assault Causing Bodily Injury: Often charged as a Class A Misdemeanor.
• Theft/Shoplifting: Can range from a Class C up to a Class A Misdemeanor, depending on the value of the property.
• Possession of Marijuana (POM): Possession of 2 ounces or less is a Class B Misdemeanor.
• Criminal Trespass: Typically a Class B Misdemeanor.
• Public Intoxication (PI): A common Class C Misdemeanor.

Building Your Misdemeanor Defense in San Antonio

A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can review the facts of your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a strong defense strategy. Some common defenses in Texas misdemeanor cases include:

• Challenging the Initial Stop or Arrest: Was there a lawful, constitutionally sound reason for the police to stop, detain, or arrest you? If not, the evidence gathered afterward may be inadmissible, often leading to a dismissal.
• Insufficient Evidence/Reasonable Doubt: The prosecution bears the burden of proving every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Your defense attorney can argue that the State has failed to meet this high standard.
• Self-Defense or Defense of Others: Particularly relevant in assault cases, Texas law protects your right to use necessary force.
• Mistake of Fact or Lack of Intent: For many crimes, the State must prove that you acted with a specific intent. If you acted without the required criminal intent, your attorney can argue for a dismissal or acquittal.
• Mitigation and Negotiation: Even if the evidence is strong, an experienced lawyer can often negotiate a favorable plea bargain, such as deferred adjudication, which allows for eventual dismissal and potential expunction (record clearing) of the offense.

Protect Your Rights Today in Bexar County

If you or a loved one are facing a misdemeanor charge in San Antonio or the surrounding areas, do not wait to seek legal help. The sooner you retain an attorney, the sooner they can begin investigating your case, preserving evidence, and building your defense.

At Gordon Law PLLC, we understand the stakes and are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of the Bexar County justice system. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and understand your options, and we provide flexible payment plans to ensure dedicated legal representation is accessible when you need it most.

Contact us today to schedule your confidential consultation.

Gordon Law PLLC

600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A Austin, Texas 78705

512-678-9333 (WEED)

Legal Disclaimer: The content of this article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided is general in nature and may not apply to your specific legal situation. Viewing this content or contacting Gordon Law PLLC does not create an attorney–client relationship. You should consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney to discuss the specific facts of your case.