From Tickets to Time: Texas Misdemeanors That Could Mean Jail

 Posted on August 22, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Like many people, you may believe that a misdemeanor offense in Texas is not a big deal. You will probably just have to pay a small fine and then move on with your life, right? Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Some misdemeanor crimes in Texas can actually land you behind bars, and the resulting criminal record can be damaging in many areas of your life.

The state of Texas treats certain misdemeanors fairly harshly, particularly repeat offenses. Defendants are often surprised and dismayed to find that a misdemeanor offense will send them to jail for months. If you are facing misdemeanor charges, the sooner you speak to an experienced Weatherford, TX criminal defense lawyer, the better your outcome is likely to be.

Texas Misdemeanor Categories

Texas has three classes of misdemeanor crimes (A, B, and C). A Class C misdemeanor offense is the least serious type of misdemeanor crime, carrying no jail time and a maximum fine of $500. A Class B misdemeanor (Texas Penal Code Section 12.03) has a potential penalty of up to 180 days in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000. A Class A misdemeanor is the most serious type of misdemeanor, with potential penalties of up to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $4,000. While Class A and Class B misdemeanors can result in jail time, the sentence is carried out at a local county jail rather than the state prison.

Which Class A and Class B Misdemeanors Can Result in Jail Time?

Class B misdemeanor offenses that could potentially result in jail time in Texas include:

• First-offense DUI
• Possession of up to two ounces of marijuana
• Criminal trespass
• Theft of property worth less than $750
• Criminal mischief causing damage of less than $750
• Harassment
• Reckless driving
• Prostitution

Class A misdemeanor offenses that could potentially result in jail time include:

• First-offense DWI
• Assault causing bodily injury
• Theft of property worth between $750 and $2,500
• Violation of a protective order
• Criminal mischief causing $750 to $2,500 in damage
• Public lewdness
• Burglary of a vehicle
• Carrying a handgun without a permit

Repeat offenses often carry jail time, even if the first offense did not. Repeated failure to pay fines can lead to jail time through contempt or probation violations. For example, while disorderly conduct and public intoxication are generally Class C misdemeanor offenses, repeated violations can result in jail time. Crimes committed in "protected zones," such as government buildings, schools, or on public transportation, can result in jail time, even if the underlying offense itself might not. When a weapon or violence is a part of a misdemeanor offense, it can result in jail time.

Collateral Consequences of Misdemeanor Offenses That Result in Jail Time

When an individual spends time in jail, even for a misdemeanor offense, it becomes a part of his or her criminal record. This can create significant employment barriers, often resulting in the loss of a job, and making it difficult to find new employment. Non-citizens can have serious immigration consequences, even for a Class C misdemeanor. Depending on the offense, an individual can have his or her driving privileges revoked or be unable to obtain a professional license.

Contact a Parker County, TX Misdemeanor Offense Lawyer

Never assume that a misdemeanor offense cannot cause you significant issues in the future. An experienced Weatherford, TX criminal defense attorney from Soraya Joslin, P.C. can look at options for dismissal, deferred adjudication, or diversion programs, helping you avoid jail and a criminal record. Attorney Joslin served as an ADA for several years before transitioning to a criminal defense lawyer, which has given her a deep understanding of how the criminal justice system operates on both sides. Call 817-599-7005 to schedule your free consultation.