West Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers
Fighting State Charges Throughout Midland-Odessa
When it comes to disputing criminal charges, it’s important to understand the distinction between state and federal offenses. Federal charges are crimes that involve multiple states, have to do with interstate affairs, or are otherwise in violation of federal law. These are subject to prosecution in federal courts. On the other hand, state offenses are generally crimes that have been committed within a particular state’s jurisdiction and, as such, are prosecuted by that state. Though tried in state courts, these charges can be just as serious as federal offenses. People who violate state laws may receive misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances of their alleged crime.
We are a criminal defense firm dedicated to empowering the communities in and around Midland-Odessa through effective legal services. We accept clients from Ward County to Howard County, and everywhere in between. Our experienced attorneys can help you defend yourself against state charges and work toward an outcome that preserves your future.
Contact Wolf, Stallings & Mayo today to schedule a free consultation with our West Texas criminal defense attorneys.
State-Level Misdemeanors and Felonies in Texas
Texas law describes a wide range of criminal offenses that can be charged at the state level. State misdemeanor charges are broken down into Class A, Class B, and Class C offenses. Examples of the least serious category, Class C misdemeanors, are common traffic violations, petty theft (unarmed), public intoxication, and first-time DWI offenses. Class A charges, which are the most serious misdemeanors, include second DWI offenses, assault causing bodily injury, domestic violence, possession of marijuana (2-4 ounces), and more.
State misdemeanors receive the following penalties:
- Class A: Incarceration (county) up to but less than 1 year, fines up to $4,000 (TPC §12.21)
- Class B: Incarceration (county) up to but less than 180 days, fines up to $2,000 (TPC §12.22)
- Class C: No jail time, fines up to $500 (TPC §12.23)
State-level felonies are similarly divided into categories, except these are classified according to “degree.” The highest degree is a capital felony, then you have first-, second-, and third-degree felonies. The last and lowest felony charge is a State Jail Felony. The crimes that fall into these various categories vary widely based on the facts of the case. For example, manufacturing or trafficking drugs can be categorized as a felony of the first, second, or third degree, depending on the specific drugs involved and their amounts. A common felony offense is a third DWI offense (third-degree felony). Other state-level felonies include many violent offenses, armed robbery, certain drug charges, major traffic offenses, and DWI violations that resulted in fatal injuries.
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