What separates a misdemeanor charge from a felony? This is a question many people face during some of the most stressful moments of their lives. The answer carries serious consequences, as the distinction between these charges can change the course of a person’s future.
At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we understand how overwhelming this can be. With over 30 years of experience handling cases across San Antonio and South Texas, we have built strong ties in the legal community, offering our clients access to experienced legal counsel 24 hours a day.
In this article, we will break down the key differences between misdemeanor and felony charges, and why the right legal defense can make all the difference.
Understanding the Two Categories of Charges
Criminal offenses in Texas are generally divided into two broad categories: misdemeanors and felonies. The differences between them affect potential penalties, long-term consequences, and how defense strategies are developed.
Misdemeanor Charges:
- Considered less severe offenses
- Common examples: petty theft, simple assault, DUI (first offense), and minor drug possession
- Penalties can include fines, probation, community service, and jail time of up to one year
- Usually handled in county or municipal courts
Felony Charges:
- Considered serious offenses
- Examples: aggravated assault, armed robbery, murder, and serious drug offenses
- Penalties may include lengthy prison sentences (over one year), substantial fines, loss of civil rights, and a permanent criminal record
- Handled in state or federal courts
How These Charges Impact Defense Planning
The severity of the charge directly affects how we prepare a defense. For misdemeanors, we often focus on minimizing immediate penalties, protecting employment, and preventing escalation to felony charges. Felony cases demand a deeper examination of evidence, witness credibility, and procedural errors. The stakes are higher, and every aspect of the case must be challenged thoroughly.
Collateral Consequences
Beyond immediate penalties, felony convictions often carry long-term consequences:
- Difficulty securing employment
- Loss of professional licenses
- Restricted access to housing and financial aid
- Limitations on voting and firearm ownership
Misdemeanor convictions, while less damaging, can still affect personal and professional opportunities, making strong defense essential at every level.
Why Experience Matters in Serious Criminal Cases
Are you or someone you know facing criminal charges? When dealing with misdemeanor and felony charges, having the right criminal defense lawyer matters more than anything. At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we take every case personally. As one of the leading criminal defense law firms in San Antonio and South Texas, we combine local knowledge with decades of courtroom experience.
Whether you need a felony defense lawyer or a criminal defense attorney ready to fight for your future, our team is available 24 hours a day to provide experienced, aggressive representation. Contact us today to protect your rights and your future.
