Texas Defense Firm | April 15, 2026 | Criminal Defense

What are Class Offenses in Texas?

In Texas, criminal offenses are generally classified into “classes” to indicate their level of seriousness and the likely punishment. This classification system shapes what kind of penalty a defendant can receive.

Understanding where an accusation falls within these classes is vital for defending yourself and for making informed decisions about your case. For further guidance on your criminal defense case, reach out to an experienced lawyer.

Types of Misdemeanor Classes in Texas 

Texas law organizes these lesser criminal charges by class. Misdemeanors are classified into one of three classes.

Class C Misdemeanors

Class C misdemeanors represent the lowest level of criminal offense in Texas. These cases never lead to jail time and can carry a fine of up to $500. 

Examples of Class C misdemeanors include:

  • Minor traffic violations 
  • Public intoxication, as long as it’s not combined with another more serious offense
  • Low-level disorderly conduct

While these seem like small matters, a Class C misdemeanor is still a conviction and, depending on frequency or context, can affect your record and result in consequences to your life. 

Class B Misdemeanors 

Class B misdemeanors are still not as serious as felonies, but do carry the possibility of jail time. Penalties can include up to 180 days in the county jail and a fine of up to $2,000.

Common examples include:

These cases are taken more seriously than class C misdemeanors, but still fall under the umbrella of less severe offenses. They often involve situations where intent can be debated or the harm caused is relatively minor.

Class A Misdemeanors

At the top of the misdemeanor scale, Class A misdemeanors carry the harshest consequences. A conviction can bring up to one year in county jail and up to $4,000 in fines. 

Examples include: 

  • Assault causing bodily injury (if the harm isn’t severe enough to justify moving to a felony)
  • A second DWI
  • Mid-level theft charges, like shoplifting higher-value goods 

Any conviction in this group is also incredibly serious and can lead to longer jail sentences.   

How Felonies Are Categorized in Texas

Felony charges in Texas are handled far more seriously than misdemeanors, and the penalties can be much harsher. 

State Jail Felonies

State jail felonies are the lowest tier of felonies in the Texas criminal justice system. Sentences can run from 180 days to 2 years in state jail, plus a fine of up to $10,000. These could include certain theft offenses or drug charges. 

Third-Degree Felonies 

Third-degree felonies carry harsher sentences. This can include anywhere from 2 to 10 years in prison, and fines up to $10,000. Common examples of this class of crime include certain assault offenses, drug-related crimes, or fraud-related offenses‌.

Second-Degree Felonies

Second-degree felonies come with penalties from 2 to 20 years in state prison, plus another potential $10,000 fine. Offenses such as aggravated assault with a weapon, robbery, sexual assault, arson, and some kidnapping cases are in this class. 

First-Degree Felonies

The most serious non-capital crime classification, first-degree felonies carry a potential sentence ranging from 5 to 99 years or life in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines.  

Capital Felonies

This class is reserved for the most devastating crimes, such as murder or homicide involving certain victims. Penalties include life in prison without parole or the death penalty. 

Call the McKinney Criminal Defense Attorneys at Texas Defense Firm Today for a Confidential Consultation

If you’ve been charged with a crime in McKinney, Texas, a lawyer can immediately evaluate your charges, identify potential defenses, negotiate with prosecutors to try to get charges reduced or dismissed, and represent you in court from start to finish. Early legal help is especially important because the choices you make right after being charged may shape the entire outcome of your case. Texas Defense Firm is here to help you understand your legal rights and build a strong defense based on your individual needs. Call us today to schedule a confidential case evaluation with a McKinney criminal defense lawyer to get started.

We proudly serve Collin, Denton, Kaufman, and Rockwall counties and the surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:

Texas Defense Firm – McKinney Office
7300 State Highway 121 Suite 400
McKinney TX 75070
(972) 369-0577
Available 24/7