The consequences of a misdemeanor conviction are not as severe as those of a felony, but that doesn’t mean misdemeanors aren’t serious. Some misdemeanors in Texas can bring jail time. All misdemeanors appear on a person’s record and can affect their ability to obtain employment, rent housing, or purchase a home. The Round Rock misdemeanor lawyers at Pennington Law PLLC will work hard to ensure our clients receive the fair treatment promised by law. Contact us online or call us at 512-255-2733.
Texas law classifies misdemeanor crimes on three different levels:
Plea bargaining can be a part of the process when a District Attorney is determining what charges to file. Our Round Rock misdemeanor attorneys take the time to understand the human dynamic that can be such a big part of decisions in the criminal justice system.
Does a defendant with the evidence against him have something they may be able to offer the D.A. in terms of information about other crimes? Is a D.A. dealing with an overloaded docket where they may be incentivized to offer a lesser charge in exchange for a guilty plea? These might be possibilities and lesser charges can make a big difference in the sentence ultimately levied.
The guidelines noted above generally have to guide judges in determining what sentence to apply after a misdemeanor conviction. But there are exceptions. For example, a defendant with a previous record may find themselves subject to enhanced sentencing, which means a judge has the ability to go beyond the maximum sentence that would otherwise apply. If a crime is determined to have been motivated by prejudice, sentences might be more severe. For example:
This is why it’s imperative that defense lawyers approach every case with an open mind and a commitment to fresh strategic thinking. No two cases are exactly alike. While the law provides broad guidelines, the individual circumstances of any case may create exceptions. A vigilant attorney works hard to be aware of all these unique factors and what their implications are.
When you’re facing misdemeanor charges, waiting is not an option. You need a proactive, aggressive defense strategy focused on protecting your future. Contact us today to speak with an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney at Pennington Law PLLC who is ready to fight for your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in your case.