Stephenville Misdemeanor Defense Attorney

Defending Local Residents of Erath County—Also Serving Hood and Eastland Counties

If you have been accused of a misdemeanor offense in Texas, the stakes can feel overwhelming. Every community—including Stephenville, Granbury, and Eastland—faces its own unique challenges within the Texas legal system, and local courts in Erath County make a significant difference when it comes to defending your rights. 

At Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton, we are dedicated to supporting residents throughout the area by providing strategic legal counsel that is personalized for the nuances of our local courts and prosecutors. With years of experience as a misdemeanor attorney in Erath County, we know that what matters most to our clients is clear communication, straightforward solutions, and a defense strategy that examines every detail. 

When you face legal issues related to misdemeanor charges in Stephenville, the Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton are here to offer experienced legal representation and guidance. We are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.

Call the Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton today at (888) 246-6869 or contact us online to request a consultation with our misdemeanor lawyer in Stephenville.

What is a Misdemeanor?

Misdemeanors are a category of criminal offenses that fall between infractions (minor violations) and felonies (more serious crimes) in the Texas criminal justice system. While they are generally considered less severe than felonies, misdemeanor charges should never be taken lightly, as they can still result in significant legal consequences. 

Common examples of misdemeanor offenses include petty theft, simple assault, public intoxication, first DWI offenses, minor drug possession, and certain types of property damage.

Misdemeanors are typically classified into three categories:

• Class A Misdemeanors: These are the most serious misdemeanor charges and can lead to up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
• Class B Misdemeanors: Convictions can result in up to 180 days in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class C Misdemeanors: These less serious offenses are typically punishable by a fine of up to $500, without the possibility of jail time.

What Are the Penalties for a Misdemeanor in Texas?

In Texas, the penalties for a misdemeanor conviction may vary based on the specific category and severity of the offense. Beyond fines and potential jail time, a misdemeanor conviction can have lasting consequences, including:

• Criminal Record: A misdemeanor conviction may result in a permanent criminal record that can significantly affect your future employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
• Driver's License Suspension: Certain misdemeanor offenses, such as DWI, can result in the suspension of your driver’s license, making it difficult to maintain daily routines.
• Probation: Instead of jail, a judge might assign probation, requiring regular check-ins, counseling, or educational programs as conditions for remaining out of custody.
• Increased Penalties for Future Offenses: Repeat misdemeanor convictions can lead to escalated penalties, including longer jail time and higher fines.

If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Erath County, understand that a conviction can impact more than just your present circumstances. For instance, college students at Tarleton State University in Stephenville may face scholarship or campus program restrictions if convicted. Certain licensed professions also have strict rules regarding criminal history. Our firm provides clients with guidance that considers how Texas and Erath County laws could affect your life both now and in the years to come, ensuring you know your rights and options at every turn.

What are Potential Defenses Against Misdemeanor Charges?

At the Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton, we understand that every misdemeanor case is unique. Our team of misdemeanor attorneys in Erath County is dedicated to creating strong, tailored defense strategies for every client’s situation. 

Some of the most common defenses used against misdemeanor charges include:

• Lack of Evidence: If there is not enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, we work to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated during a search or arrest, evidence may be deemed inadmissible in court.
• Self-Defense: If you were protecting yourself or others at the time of the alleged offense, we argue for your actions to be deemed justified under Texas law.
• Mistaken Identity: If there is any chance of misidentification or false accusation, we thoroughly investigate and present evidence to support your innocence.
• Procedural Errors: We review each step of the legal process to find procedural mistakes that could result in reduced penalties or dismissed charges.