Misdemeanors
Need a MisdemeanoR ATTORNEY in Dallas, Texas?
Are you facing allegations of a misdemeanor crime and need a misdemeanor attorney in Dallas, Texas? Misdemeanor charges in Dallas are not to be taken lightly. The judge has the authority to raise misdemeanor offenses to felony level charges. Good lawyers for misdemeanors in Dallas can help Texans reduce or eliminate these strategies with a strong criminal defense strategy so things don’t get out of control.
Common Misdemeanor Charges
Common Misdemeanor Charges Include:
- Petty Theft
- Possession of Marijuana
- Public Intoxication
- Disorderly Conduct
- Reckless Driving
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Misdemeanor DWI Charges
A simple DWI is classified as a Class B misdemeanor in Texas. An individual may face enhanced charges if other crimes occur concurrently and/or for repeat offenses. Click here to learn more about the laws and details of DWI charges in Texas.
Misdemeanor Theft Charges
Misdemeanor Assault Charges
Although most assault charges are elevated to felony assault, there are cases in which assault is considered a misdemeanor crime.
A first-time offender for a simple assault involving bodily injury is generally charged with Class A misdemeanor.
Threatening to commit assault or using physical contact in an attempt to provoke another individual is a Class C misdemeanor.
Misdemeanor Drug Charges
As a top misdemeanor lawyer can tell you, serious drug-related crimes are state or federal level felony charges. Possession, distribution, or manufacturing of hard drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, meth are automatic felony charges. Lawyers for misdemeanors often lament that those charges with these crimes often wait to contact them. Don’t let this happen to you.
However, there are a few drug-related charges that may be charged as misdemeanors, including the possession of drug paraphernalia, non-prescribed controlled medications, and small amounts of marijuana.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
The possession of any items related to drug manufacturing, prep, distribution, or use is a misdemeanor charge. Examples of drug paraphernalia include:
- Pipes
- Needles
- Grinders
- Scales
- Baggies
An individual may face charges of possession of drug paraphernalia even in circumstances in which drug possession is non-existent.
Possession of Marijuana
Marijuana is handled differently under the Texas legal system. Possession of small amounts of marijuana are charged as misdemeanor offenses. In a free consultation with misdemeanor attorneys Gallian Firm, Gregg Gallian can explain the details of marijuana possession charges to you.
Charges for marijuana possession of less than 2 ounces is considered a Class B misdemeanor.
Possession of an amount ranging from 2 to 4 ounces is a Class A misdemeanor.
Possession of any amount of marijuana over 4 ounces is an automatic felony charge. Marijuana possession will require a misdemeanor lawyer who understands the ins and outs of marijuana laws in Texas. Misdemeanor attorney Gregg Gallian is a skilled, aggressive and award winning attorney who fights for his clients. A free consultation is just a phone call or contact form completion away. Don’t wait!
Other Misdemeanor Drug Possession Charges
Possession of less than 28 grams of a controlled substance from penalty groups 3 and 4 is a Class A misdemeanor. Penalty groups 3 and 4 include non-opiate medications, such as Valium, Xanax, and Buprenorphine.
POTENTIAL PENALTIES FOR MISDEMEANOR CRIMES IN DALLAS, TEXAS
The potential penalties for a misdemeanor conviction will depend on which class the crime falls within. Misdemeanor level crimes are classified into 3 distinct categories, Class A, B, or C.
Class A Misdemeanors
Class A misdemeanor convictions are the most serious level of misdemeanor and only one step away from a felony charge. A Class A misdemeanor conviction could potentially result in up to one year behind bars and/or $4,000 in fines.
The prosecution will fight for maximum penalties and may attempt to have your charges elevated to felony offenses. Certain misdemeanor convictions, including theft, drugs, and assault also have the potential to destroy future employment opportunities and your reputation.
Class B Misdemeanors
Class B misdemeanors are punishable by up to 180 days behind bars and/or up to $2,000 in fines.
Class C Misdemeanors
Class C misdemeanors do not require jail time but are fined at $500. These may include drug paraphernalia possession, shoplifting, jumping bail, disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.
As Dallas misdemeanor attorney Gallian Firm has demonstrated in hundreds of cases, misdemeanor charges do not have to result in criminal convictions or jail time. The right lawyers for misdemeanors can help individuals facing misdemeanor allegations have their charges reduced or dropped in some cases. Choosing the wrong misdemeanor lawyer could bring more severe penalties upon you. Contact Dallas misdemeanor lawyer Gallian Firm today for a free consultation and case review.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Misdemeanors in Texas?
The State of Texas has a two year timeframe to file charges against an individual for misdemeanor level crimes.
