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Misdemeanor Crimes

Houston Misdemeanor Charges Lawyer – Shahin Zamir

In what can probably be considered a case of the laziest dog-sitter in the world, a man in South Carolina who dangled a dog from a balcony so that it could answer nature’s call was charged with a misdemeanor violation of as city ordinance. The man did not want to take the canine outside because it was raining; if found guilty, the man will probably not see any jail time.

Call today for a free case review: 713-223-8900.

Class C crimes are often referred to as petty crimes. They involve offenses such as petty theft and dangling dogs from balconies as previously commented above. Small crime charges can be filed at the federal, state or even municipal level. Petty offenses do not merit prison sentences greater than one year; in fact, defendants accused of minor crimes that do not involve victims, injuries or extensive property damage rarely end up going to jail.

Types of Petty Crimes

In Texas and various other jurisdictions across the United States, misdemeanors are classified by their perceived severity. Petty crimes in the Lone Star State are classified as follows:

  • Class C: Defendants do not face any prison time and are not expected to pay fines greater than $500; this is probably the type of misdemeanor the South Carolina dog dangler is facing.
  • Class B: No more than six months in a correctional institution and a fine no higher than $2,000.
  • Class A: No more than a year in prison and a fine up to $4,000.

The types of illegal activities classified as petty crimes across all jurisdictions truly run the gamut; some examples include: simple drug possession, shoplifting small items, trespassing in public park after hours, disturbing the peace, public intoxication, etc. Driving under the influence is an offense that straddles the line between misdemeanor and felony. Criminal defense attorneys often try to get Class B charges dismissed by taking up the issue directly with prosecutors and convincing them that taking the case to trial could be a misuse of resources. Some felony cases may be reduced to Class C so that defendants can avoid jail time.

Contact a Misdemeanor Charges Attorney in Houston, TX

Petty crime charges in Texas are very serious. If you are facing class A charges then schedule a free legal consultation session with Shahin Zamir by calling 713-223-8900.