Being arrested for a misdemeanor may not seem as serious as a felony, but it can still result in jail time, fines, a criminal record, and other long-term consequences. You might be wondering whether you can just represent yourself in court or accept a plea deal and move on. While misdemeanor charges are less severe than felonies, that doesn’t mean they should be taken lightly under Texas law.
In many cases, hiring a criminal defense lawyer is one of the smartest steps you can take. A qualified attorney can help you understand the charges against you, protect your rights, and explore options that may help reduce or even dismiss the penalties you’re facing. Keep reading to learn more.
What Counts as a Misdemeanor in Texas?
Texas law classifies misdemeanors into three levels: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Each comes with its own potential penalties.
- Class A misdemeanors are the most serious and can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
- Class B misdemeanors carry a possible sentence of up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
- Class C misdemeanors do not result in jail time but can still lead to fines of up to $500 and a criminal conviction.
Examples of misdemeanor charges in Texas include:
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Assault (without serious injury)
- Theft under $2,500
- Possession of small amounts of marijuana
- Disorderly conduct
- Public intoxication
Even a low-level misdemeanor can leave you with a criminal record that affects your employment, housing, and professional licensing. And for some offenses, future arrests can lead to enhanced penalties.
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Lawyer for a Misdemeanor Case
Misdemeanor charges are often resolved through plea deals, but that doesn’t mean they’re all fair or in your best interest.
A criminal defense lawyer can give you the edge you need by:
- Reviewing the evidence: Your attorney can look into whether the prosecution has enough to convict you or whether the case has weaknesses.
- Identifying constitutional violations: If your rights were violated (such as an illegal search or lack of Miranda warnings), your lawyer may be able to suppress evidence or get your case thrown out.
- Advising you on consequences: Some misdemeanor convictions carry hidden consequences, such as immigration issues, driver’s license suspensions, or future felony enhancements. A lawyer will help you avoid pitfalls.
- Negotiating a plea deal: If appropriate, your lawyer can work to reduce your charges, avoid jail time, or qualify you for diversion programs that may help you avoid a conviction altogether.
- Going to trial: If you want to fight your charges, a defense attorney can represent you at trial and challenge the government’s case.
Having someone with legal experience on your side can mean the difference between a conviction and a clean record or even between jail time and walking free.
Will a Misdemeanor Stay on My Record Forever?
If you’re convicted of a misdemeanor in Texas, that charge becomes part of your criminal history. It can show up on background checks for jobs, housing, school, or even when applying for professional licenses.
However, in some cases, you may be able to seal or expunge your record. That depends on several factors, including:
- Whether you were convicted or just arrested
- If the charge was dismissed or resolved through deferred adjudication
- Whether you’ve completed any waiting period required under Texas law
An attorney can review your case to determine whether you’re eligible for record sealing (through a nondisclosure order) or expunction. If so, they can also handle the paperwork and court process for you. Without legal help, it’s much easier to miss an opportunity that could clean up your record.
Can You Represent Yourself for a Misdemeanor in Texas?
Technically, yes. You’re allowed to act as your own attorney in a misdemeanor case. However, unless you have legal training, it’s a risky move. Texas law and court procedures are complicated, and the judge or prosecutor isn’t there to help you understand the process. Mistakes can be hard or impossible to fix once they’re made.
For instance, you might agree to a plea deal that seems harmless but results in a permanent record, job loss, or immigration consequences. You may be unaware of alternatives that could keep your record clean, such as deferred adjudication or pretrial diversion.
Representing yourself may save you money in the short term, but it can end up costing you far more in the long run. Once a conviction is on your record, it can be difficult or impossible to remove it later.
Contact an Experienced Fort Worth Criminal Defense Lawyer for Legal Help
If you’re facing misdemeanor charges in Texas, don’t assume you can handle it alone. The consequences may be more serious than they seem, and a skilled Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the process with confidence.
Contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers today to learn more about your rights, your options, and the possible outcome of your case. Contact us online or call (682) 777-3336 for a case evaluation.
