Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | December 15, 2025 | Texas Law
Texas is known for its independent spirit and strong sense of personal freedom. However, like every state, it has laws that may catch you off guard. From outdated statutes still on the books to surprisingly strict criminal penalties, there are more ways to break the law in Texas than most people realize.
While most Texans understand the basics, like refraining from driving while intoxicated and assaulting other people, other lesser-known offenses can still land you in trouble. Learning about these laws can help you avoid costly mistakes and unwanted encounters with law enforcement.
Strange and Unexpected Laws in Texas
Texas has its fair share of unusual laws, many of which were written decades ago but have never been officially repealed. While some are rarely enforced, they’re still technically on the books.
For example:
- It’s illegal to buy or sell human organs in Texas, and both state and federal laws prohibit the sale of organs for transplantation.
- If someone behaves offensively around a body in a public setting, they could face charges depending on the surrounding conduct—particularly if it causes a disturbance or involves abuse of a corpse.
- In Galveston, it’s illegal to sit on the sidewalk and block pedestrian traffic.
While some of these laws aren’t actively enforced, they still help highlight how Texas’s legal code has evolved over time.
Common Everyday Actions That Can Lead to Criminal Charges
Beyond the quirky and outdated laws, there are several everyday situations where people unintentionally violate modern Texas law.
Some examples include:
- Carrying a weapon into certain public places, like schools and government buildings, could result in a misdemeanor or a felony in some circumstances.
- Public intoxication can lead to arrest if officers believe you pose a danger to yourself or others.
- In some cases, sharing someone else’s intimate images without consent can be a crime in Texas, depending on the circumstances and what was shared.
Many of these laws hinge on context, meaning factors such as what you say and where you are can make the difference between legal behavior and a criminal citation.
What Are the Penalties for Minor Offenses in Texas?
Texas divides criminal offenses into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies. These can carry a wide range of punishments, depending on the facts of the case in question.
- Misdemeanors are less severe but can still carry jail time and substantial fines. Class C misdemeanors, such as traffic offenses, can result in fines of up to $500, while Class A misdemeanors, like resisting arrest, can lead to up to one year in county jail.
- Felonies involve more serious conduct and can lead to state prison sentences. For example, a state jail felony, the lowest felony category, can result in up to two years in custody.
It’s also worth noting that many Texas convictions can have long-term collateral consequences for employment and housing opportunities, just to name a couple of examples.
Schedule an Initial Consultation With a Trusted Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
Texas has one of the broadest and most complex criminal codes in the country. As a result of this convoluted framework, it’s easier than you might think to cross a legal line.
If you’ve been charged with a crime or believe you’re under investigation, contact a Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers as soon as possible for a consultation.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102