When someone is charged with a crime, one of the first things they may hear is whether it’s a felony or a misdemeanor. These two types of charges come with different levels of seriousness, different penalties, and different long-term effects. If you or someone you care about is facing criminal charges in Dallas, TX, knowing the difference can make a big impact on what steps to take next.
What Is a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is a lower-level crime compared to a felony. These are still criminal offenses, but they don’t carry the same kind of punishment as more serious charges. In Texas, misdemeanors are broken into three classes:
- Class A Misdemeanor – Punishable by up to 1 year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines.
- Class B Misdemeanor – Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and up to $2,000 in fines.
- Class C Misdemeanor – Usually results in a fine of up to $500 and no jail time.
Examples of misdemeanors include things like simple assault, petty theft, disorderly conduct, DWI (first offense), and public intoxication.
Even though a misdemeanor isn’t as serious as a felony, it can still affect your life. A conviction can stay on your record, making it harder to get certain jobs, rent an apartment, or qualify for certain licenses.
What Is a Felony?
A felony is a more serious crime. In Texas, felonies are divided into five levels:
- Capital Felony – The most serious charge; can result in life in prison or the death penalty.
- First-Degree Felony – Punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison, and fines up to $10,000.
- Second-Degree Felony – 2 to 20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
- Third-Degree Felony – 2 to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
- State Jail Felony – 180 days to 2 years in a state jail and fines up to $10,000.
Felonies include crimes like aggravated assault, murder, sexual assault, armed robbery, arson, and repeat DWIs. These charges often involve violence or serious harm to others, or large amounts of stolen property.
Differences in Penalties
The biggest difference between felonies and misdemeanors is the punishment. A misdemeanor might result in a fine or short jail sentence. A felony can lead to many years—or even life—in prison. Here’s a breakdown based on Texas law:
Misdemeanor Penalties:
- Class A: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Class B: Up to 180 days in jail
- Class C: Fine only, up to $500
Felony Penalties:
- Capital Felony: Life in prison or death
- 1st Degree: 5 to 99 years or life
- 2nd Degree: 2 to 20 years
- 3rd Degree: 2 to 10 years
- State Jail Felony: 180 days to 2 years
Fines for felony convictions can go as high as $10,000, and judges may also assign probation, community service, or other conditions depending on the case.
Impact on Daily Life
Whether a crime is charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, a conviction can affect someone’s future. But felonies come with much stronger consequences.
A person convicted of a felony may lose their:
- Right to vote (during incarceration)
- Right to carry a firearm
- Ability to hold public office
- Access to certain jobs or professional licenses
- Housing opportunities due to background checks
Misdemeanors usually have fewer of these restrictions, but some jobs and landlords may still deny someone with a criminal record.
Summary Offenses and Lesser Charges
In some states, there’s a third category called a summary offense or infraction. These are minor legal issues that usually don’t result in jail time. In Texas, these often fall under Class C misdemeanors. They include offenses like traffic violations, loud noise complaints, or minor alcohol offenses.
While summary offenses or Class C misdemeanors may seem small, they can still show up on background checks and add points to your driver’s license or affect future cases.
Why the Charge Matters
The difference between being charged with a misdemeanor or felony is more than just the potential jail time. It also affects how the case is handled in court, how it appears on your criminal record, and how the public sees the offense.
- Felony charges often require a grand jury indictment and are handled in district court.
- Misdemeanors are usually handled in county or municipal court and involve fewer steps.
Also, some crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the facts. This is known as a “wobbler” offense. For example, assault might be a misdemeanor if there were no serious injuries—but it could be a felony if a weapon was used or if the victim suffered serious harm.
Get Help If You’re Facing Charges
Being charged with any crime is stressful. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, the outcome can affect your future. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights, the charges against you, and what steps to take next.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you fight the charges, reduce penalties, or even get the case dismissed. They can also guide you through court hearings, explain your legal options, and protect your rights during the process.
Call Gallian Firm Today
If you’re facing a criminal charge in Dallas, don’t wait to get help. Whether you’ve been accused of a misdemeanor or a felony, you deserve someone who will stand up for you and fight to protect your future. Call Gallian Firm at (214) 432-8860 to speak with an attorney and get the help you need. The sooner you call, the better your chances of building a strong defense.