Houston Misdemeanor Lawyer

Facing a misdemeanor charge can feel stressful, confusing, and high-stakes, even though these offenses are considered "lower-level" crimes under the Texas Penal Code. At Hochglaube & DeBorde, PC, we understand that for a professional, a student, or a parent, there is no such thing as a "minor" criminal record. Our team helps individuals across the greater Houston area understand the gravity of the charges they face, the potential legal consequences, and how to respond strategically from the outset.

We bring decades of combined trial experience and a history of thousands of cases handled to every defense we build. Our firm is founded on direct access: clients work directly with their attorneys, without layers of gatekeeping. This ensures clear guidance and thoughtful advocacy tailored specifically to your circumstances. We also provide Spanish-speaking representation, virtual consultations for privacy and convenience, and 24/7 availability for urgent matters.

If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a misdemeanor, speaking with a Houston misdemeanor lawyer early can make a meaningful difference. Call (713) 526-6300 to discuss your situation confidentially.

Misdemeanor Defense: A Former Prosecutor's Perspective

Our approach to misdemeanor defense centers on meticulous preparation, evidence-driven analysis, and strategic advocacy. We carefully review the full context of each arrest, examining the legality of every stop, search, and detention. We scrutinize officer reports, body-camera footage, and witness statements to find the procedural errors that can change the outcome of a case.

With experience as former prosecutors, our attorneys understand exactly how misdemeanor cases are charged and handled in courts. This perspective allows us to anticipate the state’s arguments, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and respond strategically rather than reactively. Whether it is reducing penalties, avoiding jail time, or supporting alternative sentencing, we use our courtroom experience to provide a clear roadmap for your defense.

Texas Misdemeanor Classifications & Penalties

Texas divides misdemeanors into three classes under the Texas Penal Code Chapter 12. Understanding these distinctions is critical because the severity of a charge, and whether you face jail time, often depends on factors like property value or the specific type of substance involved.

• Class A. Punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $4,000. Examples include assault causing bodily injury, a second DWI, and theft of property valued between $750 and $2,499.
• Class B. Punishable by up to 180 days in county jail and fines up to $2,000. Examples include a first-time DWI, possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana, and theft between $100 and $749.
• Class C. Punishable by a fine up to $500 with no jail time. These include citations for public intoxication or single-incident petty theft under $100. Even with no jail time, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record.

A Crucial Note for Aggregated Theft Charges

It is important to note that under the Texas laws (SB 1300), the state has significantly intensified how it prosecutes repeat shoplifting allegations. If an individual is accused of multiple thefts over a 180-day period, prosecutors can now "aggregate," or add together, the total value of all items taken. This means that several "minor" incidents, which might normally be handled as low-level tickets, can be combined into a single, much more serious misdemeanor or even a felony. This aggregation triggers harsher penalties, higher fines, and the very real possibility of jail or prison time.

Common Offenses We Handle

At Hochglaube & DeBorde, PC, we handle a wide range of misdemeanor cases in Houston, including:

• DWI/DUI offenses. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The impact extends beyond fines to affect employment, insurance, and personal records.
• Theft and property crimes. Theft under $2,500, shoplifting, and criminal mischief. We examine how evidence was obtained and whether your rights were protected during the investigation.
• Assault and domestic violence. Simple assault or family violence cases requiring careful attention to police reports, witness statements, and self-defense arguments.
• Drug possession. Possession of small amounts of controlled substances, including marijuana or prescription medications.
• Disorderly conduct. Charges such as trespassing, public intoxication, or disturbing the peace can affect your record and future opportunities.