What’s the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor in Texas?

In Texas as elsewhere, there are differences between the criminal, personal, and even social consequences of a felony conviction and a misdemeanor. 

Read on to learn why both of them are important enough that you should do all you can—including reaching out to a Fort Worth defense lawyer—to avoid conviction. 

Texas Felony Charges

A Texas felony conviction is one that is usually punished by a stint in either jail or state prison. 

The most serious felonies in the state are capital felonies. These crimes are punishable by the death penalty, or life without parole if the death penalty is not sought by the prosecuting attorney. The most infamous example of a capital crime would be murder. 

Other felonies may be either first-, second-, or third-degree or state jail felonies. 

• First-Degree Felonies – These include some forms of sexual assault, as an example, and could result in up to life imprisonment.
• Second-Degree Felonies – With penalties ranging from two to twenty years in prison, second-degree felonies could include some drug crimes or violent crimes. 
• Third-Degree Felonies – These can be punished by up to ten year’s imprisonment. 
• State Jail Felonies – These crimes can be punished by anywhere between 180 days and two years in jail.

Examples of Misdemeanors in Texas

Misdemeanors generally refer to crimes of a less serious nature than felonies, and the punishments for a conviction are accordingly less severe. You should not make the mistake of believing that a misdemeanor charge is not to be taken seriously, however. 

Misdemeanors include crimes that, generally, do not involve violence or severe property damage. 

Some examples include: 

• First-time DWIs
• Possession of certain drugs
• Theft
• Disorderly conduct
• Many others

Even though misdemeanors are considered lesser crimes, the possible punishments still include incarceration, fines, and other restrictions. 

Whether you’re facing misdemeanor, felony, or both charges in Texas, a criminal defense lawyer with The Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy can help. 

Speak with a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Texas

Are you facing possible felony or misdemeanor criminal conviction in Texas? Don’t wait until it’s too late to get the help you need—contact one of the experienced criminal defense attorneys with The Law Offices of Jeff C. Kennedy now. 

Call us at 817-605-1010 or fill out our online form to get started.