What Is a Class C Misdemeanor?
A Class C misdemeanor is the least serious of all crimes charged in Texas. When convicted of a Class C misdemeanor, there isn’t any chance of having to serve a jail sentence. There is, however, a fine that could be as high as $500.
Class C Misdemeanor Examples
Some common examples of Class C misdemeanors are disorderly conduct, simple assault, and theft of less than $50.
Other examples of Class C misdemeanors include:
- Public intoxication
- Criminal trespassing
- Gambling
- Bail jumping
- Leaving a child in a vehicle
- Possession of alcohol in a vehicle
- Underage DWI
Penalties for Class C Misdemeanors in Texas
A Class C misdemeanor can be a much more serious affair. For example, this will be the case if you were convicted of disorderly conduct or public intoxication three times in a row. This can also occur if you were convicted of disorderly conduct and public intoxication. If this is the case and the convictions occurred within two years of the current offense, the following penalties will apply:
- A 180-day jail term
- A $2,000 fine
- Both a jail sentence and a fine
Does a Class C Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record?
A Class C misdemeanor may be expunged from a person's criminal record 180 days after the date of his or her arrest. Suppose you or a family member has been convicted of this offense. In that case, it is worth speaking to a criminal defense attorney about the expungement process because Class C misdemeanors can appear on criminal background checks.
If you or a loved one need to seek the advice of our Class C misdemeanor lawyer, call Smith & Vinson Law Firm at (512) 359-3743.