A Class C misdemeanor in Texas is the least serious criminal charge you can face. There’s no jail time, and the maximum penalty is a fine of up to $500. These are the kinds of offenses people commonly get tickets for — things like traffic violations, public intoxication, disorderly conduct, or stealing something worth less than $100.
Key Takeaways
- A Class C misdemeanor in Texas is punishable by a fine of up to $500.
- No jail time is involved.
- Common offenses include traffic violations, disorderly conduct, public intoxication, and theft of items valued at under $100
Definition: Class C Misdemeanor in Texas
Texas Penal Code §12.23 defines a Class C misdemeanor as an offense that carries a maximum penalty of:
- A fine of up to $500,
- No jail time, and
- Possible secondary penalties such as license suspension or community service.
Because there’s no potential jail sentence, Class C misdemeanors are handled in municipal or justice courts, not county or district courts.
Common Examples of Class C Misdemeanors
Some of the most common Class C misdemeanors in Texas include:
- Speeding or other traffic violations
- Public intoxication
- Disorderly conduct
- Minor in possession of alcohol or tobacco
- Theft of property under $100
- Simple assault (threat only, no physical injury)
- Truancy (failure to attend school)
- Leaving a child unattended in a vehicle
While these may seem minor, they can still appear on your criminal record if not correctly resolved.
Penalties and Court Process
For most Class C misdemeanors, you’ll receive a citation or ticket instead of being arrested.
You’ll be required to either:
- Pay the fine, or
- Appear in court to enter a plea.
If you ignore the citation or miss your court date, a warrant for your arrest could be issued, and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) could impose additional fines or a driver's license hold.
Can a Class C Misdemeanor Be Expunged in Texas?
Yes — many Class C misdemeanors can be expunged (erased) from your record if:
- The case was dismissed,
- You were found not guilty, or
- You completed deferred disposition (a probation-like agreement with the court).
Once expunged, you can legally deny that the offense ever occurred.
If you were convicted, however, the record generally cannot be expunged, though it may be sealed in rare circumstances.
FAQs
What is considered a Class C misdemeanor in Texas?
A Class C misdemeanor is a minor criminal offense under Texas Penal Code §12.23, punishable by a fine up to $500 and no jail time. Common examples include traffic tickets, public intoxication, and disorderly conduct.
Can you go to jail for a Class C misdemeanor in Texas?
No. Class C misdemeanors do not carry jail time. However, failing to pay the fine or appear in court can lead to a warrant for your arrest and additional penalties.
Can a Class C misdemeanor be expunged in Texas?
Yes — if your case was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or you completed deferred disposition, you may qualify for expunction. Once expunged, the charge is permanently removed from your record.
Legal Source
Defined under Texas Penal Code §12.23, verified by Michael & Associates research and data from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
