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Misdemeanors Put Unparalleled Defense In Your Corner

Texas Misdemeanor Defense Attorney

Experienced Defense Attorney Serving All of Texas

A criminal offense is divided into one of two main categories: a felony or a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor offense is generally considered less serious than a felony offense, but both should be taken very seriously. Even a misdemeanor charge, such as drunk driving or shoplifting, can result in expensive fines, jail time and a criminal record that can make it difficult to get a job, be admitted to a university, or even rent a home.

At the Sloane Law Firm, Attorney Sloane has a proven track record of success and can provide the aggressive and tenacious representation to help reduce charges, or even have them dropped. As a former police lieutenant, he understands the intricacies of the laws surrounding criminal cases, and he’s ready to protect your rights.

Call (817) 349-7118 or contact him online for a free consultation.

Understanding Misdemeanor Classes in Texas

Under Texas law, all misdemeanor offenses are classified as class A, class B, and class C crimes. Class A crimes are the most serious, while class C crimes are the least severe.

The punishments for each misdemeanor are:

  • Class A Misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $4,000, or both jail time and a fine. Assault, burglary, resisting arrest and unlawful possession of a weapon are examples of class A misdemeanors.
  • Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, or both. Prostitution and minor drug possession are examples of class B misdemeanors.
  • Class C Misdemeanor: A fine of up to $2,000 (there is no jail time). Traffic tickets, public intoxication, simple assault, criminal trespassing, and possession of drug paraphernalia are all class C misdemeanors.

What is the Statute of Limitations for Misdemeanors in TX?

When a crime is committed, there is a statute of limitations that begins within which the state must pursue criminal prosecution. In Texas, prosecutors have 2 years to file charges for a misdemeanor, or else they risk extinguishing their right to pursue charges.

Are Tickets Considered Misdemeanors?

Tickets are usually considered infractions and will not show up on your background check. Unless your speeding offense was extremely heinous, or you are a serial offender, the odds are pretty high that your ticket is a simple infraction and will not affect your professional future — though it will probably go on your driving record for a few years and raise your insurance rates. Speeding tickets are rarely misdemeanor offenses. Street racing is usually a misdemeanor criminal offense in most states. Misdemeanors are generally punishable by up to a year in jail, plus a fine.

Can a Misdemeanor Be Dropped?

A misdemeanor has the potential to stay on your record for life, however you may be eligible to have your misdemeanor expunged from your record. Expungement is the legal process in which a misdemeanor becomes cleared from a person's criminal record.

Misdemeanors can continue to negatively affect someone's life in various ways, such as:

  • Showing up on employment background checks.
  • Showing up on background checks run by landlords.
  • Visible to colleges and universities.
  • Visible to banks when applying for loans.

Factors such as having only one arrest, evidence of you going through rehab since the conviction, and completing the terms of the sentence will increase your chances of having your misdemeanor expunged.

How Much Is Bail for a Misdemeanor?

Bail for misdemeanor can be as little as $25 and is usually below $5,000. Ultimately, the judge has discretion whether or not to set bail and if so, how much. Bail could also be set higher for those who have the income to afford it. A judge can also deny bail if the crime is much more serious.

Building Strong Defenses Against Misdemeanor Charges

Any criminal conviction, even a misdemeanor, can result in serious consequences including time in jail and expensive fines. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in Texas, you need to contact the Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer at the Sloane Law Firm. Mr. Sloane can sit down with you and explain how your case may fare in court based on the facts, the assigned judge and prosecutor, and the law. With his help, you may be able to receive lesser charges, or have them dropped altogether.

Ready to get started on your defense? Call (817) 349-7118 or contact him online to discuss your case.

Our Settlements & Verdicts

Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.

  • Case Dismissed Possession of a Controlled Substance Under One Gram in a Drug Free Zone
  • Reduced to Obstruction of a Highway Driving While Intoxicated 2nd (DWI)
  • Charge Dismissed Possession of Marijuana <2oz
  • Charges Dismissed Deadly Conduct, Unlawful Carry of Weapon, and Possession of Marijuana <2oz
  • Reduced Under 12.44 Motion to Adjudicate - Violation of Bond 2+ Times within 12 months, Publication of Intimate Visual Material, and Driving While Intoxicated

Testimonials From Real People

See What Clients Have Said About Us
    "Highly recommended! Worth every penny."
    Highly recommended! Worth every penny. I had possession of marijuana under 2 ounces and he got it reduced to drug paraphernalia and a fine. He definitely knows what he is doing and is very creative with it!
    - Michael
    "By far the best lawyer in the state of Texas."
    Amazing lawyer. Has worked diligently with me on my cases, and has even been able to work out nice deals when I myself have made multiple mistakes. In the courtroom, he is courteous but firm, and will make sure you get the best deal possible if he can't already get your case dropped. By far the best lawyer in the state of Texas, especially for drug related offences!
    - Chaise
    "He made my tough situation a breeze to get through!!"
    I am from Phoenix AZ and hired David Sloan for a case I had in Sierra Blanca TX! He was very professional and also personable! He made my tough situation a breeze to get through!! I recommend him for anyone who needs help with a mistake they have made in life and need a smooth way of fixing the problem and moving on!!
    - Levi
    "David Sloane is hands down the best in the area. I couldn't have asked for a more knowledgeable, confident, friendly and charming person even if I tried."
    David Sloane is hands down the best in the area. I couldn't have asked for a more knowledgeable, confident, friendly and charming person even if I tried. He is a 100% genuine person who truly cares about the outcome and well-being of his clients and I would recommend him for any kind of criminal law case.
    - Jackie
    "I consider this money well spent. He did a great job."
    I hired David Sloane to defend me against marijuana charge. He gave me the option of charging a flat fee. It was explained to me my cost would be fixed regardless of whether it took him one appearance in court or ten. I agreed to this as a means of limiting my legal cost. He was able to get the charges against me dismissed. I consider this money well spent. He did a great job for the price quoted.
    - Slade
    "David Sloane is hands down the most professional, trustworthy, and hard working attorney I've ever known."
    David Sloane is hands down the most professional, trustworthy, and hard working attorney I've ever known. He has helped my family time and time again. We only trust him with our legal issues and you should too. You will not be disappointed with the results. He will fight tooth and nail for you and will not stop. Choosing any other attorney is a mistake.
    - Matt
    "David Sloane and Associates are hands down the best attorneys in the DFW area I can’t recommend them enough."
    David Sloane and Associates are hands down the best attorneys in the DFW area I can’t recommend them enough. I Was charged with a DWI and they got me the best deal you could ask for. Again, I can’t stress this enough if you’re in need of an attorney for pot or DWi charges, CALL THESE GUYS!!!!
    - Jason
    "He will fight for what he believes is right. Really, he is all you could ask for as a legal representative and a general person."
    Mr. Sloane has lengthy experience in law enforcement. This only adds to his already plethora of knowledge about the law. He understands procedures field officers must adhere to. Very easy person to communicate with and makes you feel he is definitely on your side. He will work with you in every aspect of your case. Explains your options and tells you what he believes is best and always works with you on your decision. His office is easily reachable and they respond in a swift manner. What stuck with me most was his world view. He is a humble man who stands by his beliefs. He will fight for what he believes is right. Really, he is all you could ask for as a legal representative and a general person. Highly suggest for the DFW metroplex!
    - Pasquale