Practice Areas

Facing legal trouble? Don’t wait—get the defense you deserve. Contact Paul Meyers-Call Paul Law-now for a free and confidential consultation to protect your rights and your future.

Facing legal trouble? Explain how there are many types of offenses and levels of punishment- explain the consequences of these offenses, from conviction to imprisonment. Don’t wait—get the defense you deserve. Contact Paul Meyers-Call Paul Law-now for a free and confidential consultation to protect your rights and your future. Paul specializes in the following practices areas:

• Assault Family Violence
• DWI
• Drug Offenses
• Expunctions & Non-Disclosures
• Misdemeanors
• Pardons/Clemency
• Sex Offense

There are many types and levels of criminal offenses in Texas. The Texas criminal system categorizes offenses into two main classes: misdemeanors and felonies. The severity of the crime determines the class, which in turn dictates the potential penalties, including fines, time in jail or prison, and other long-term consequences.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are considered less serious crimes than felonies, but their consequences can still be significant. They are divided into three classes, with punishments varying by the class of the offense.

• Class C Misdemeanor: These are the least serious offenses, often handled with a fine and no jail time. Examples include public intoxication, simple assault, or speeding tickets. The maximum fine is typically around $500.
• Class B Misdemeanor: This level of offense can result in a fine of up to $2,000 and a jail sentence of up to 180 days. Examples include DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) first offense, criminal trespass, or prostitution.
• Class A Misdemeanor: The most serious type of misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $4,000 and up to one year in a county jail. Examples often include assault family violence (first offense) and second-offense DWI.

Felonies

Felonies are the most serious criminal offenses in Texas and carry much harsher penalties, including significant prison time. They are also divided into different degrees of severity.

State Jail Felony: These offenses are punishable by a sentence of 180 days to two years in a state jail facility, with the possibility of a fine up to $10,000. Drug offenses, such as possession of a controlled substance under 1 gram, fall into this category.

• Third-Degree Felony: A conviction can result in a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples include aggravated assault or some theft offenses.
• Second-Degree Felony: Punishable by a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples include sexual assault or aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
• First-Degree Felony: The most serious felony level, with a prison sentence of 5 to 99 years, or life, and a fine of up to $10,000. Offenses like murder or aggravated sexual assault are examples of first-degree felonies.
• Capital Murder: The most severe offense, punishable by life without parole or the death penalty.

The Consequences of a Conviction

A criminal conviction goes beyond the immediate penalties of fines or imprisonment. A conviction can have profound and lasting effects on every aspect of your life.

• Criminal Record: A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that is public and accessible to potential employers, landlords, and educational institutions. This can make it difficult to find a job or secure housing.
• Loss of Rights: Depending on the offense, a felony conviction can lead to the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote, serve on a jury, or own a firearm.
• Professional and Personal Impact: Certain professions require licenses that can be suspended or revoked following a conviction. The social stigma of a criminal record can also strain personal relationships and limit social opportunities.

CALL PAUL LAW

Paul serves clients throughout Texas, including, but not limited to, those in the following localities: Montgomery County including Conroe, New Caney, Oak Ridge North, Pinehurst, Porter, The Woodlands, and Willis, Harris County, Polk County, Walker County, and any county throughout the State of Texas.