If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Houston, the consequences can still be serious. Our three-generation practice has handled 25,000+ cases spanning over 50 years, and your Houston misdemeanor lawyer with Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC is ready to help protect your future.
Your Houston criminal defense lawyer will walk you through every step, so you know exactly what to expect. If you need answers right now, reach out to our team and let’s talk about what comes next.
Why Choose Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC for Your Legal Services?
At our firm, helping people in Houston is more than what we do. It is who we are. We have been standing up for folks in this community for over 50 years, and we bring that same dedication and heart to every misdemeanor case we take on. Whether you are facing charges for the first time or you have been through this before, we will meet you where you are and help you take the next right step forward.
Proven Experience in Complex Misdemeanor Defense
From shoplifting to simple assault to drug crimes, we have seen just about every kind of misdemeanor charge walk through our doors. Our team knows how to spot weak spots in the state’s case, push for dismissals, and fight for pretrial diversion when it is the best option. We are not afraid to challenge prosecutors, and we never lose sight of what matters most to you.
Support That Goes Beyond the Courtroom
Dealing with a charge is stressful enough without worrying about what comes next. That is why we stick with you after court, helping with things like background checks, community service paperwork, or clearing up confusion about your record. You will not be left guessing. We are here to walk you through it, every step of the way.
Clear Communication and Judgment-Free Support
When you work with our firm, you never have to wonder what is happening with your case. We keep you in the loop, explain everything in plain language, and make sure your questions get answered. No legal jargon. No confusion. Just real support from a team that cares.
What is a Misdemeanor in Texas?
Not every criminal charge is a felony, but that does not mean misdemeanors are easy to brush off. In Texas, misdemeanors are divided into three classes based on how serious the offense is and what kind of punishment may apply. Knowing where your charge falls helps you understand what to expect next. Texas classifies misdemeanors into three main categories:
- Class A misdemeanors include assault and possession of controlled substances in small amounts
- Class B misdemeanors often involve first-time DWI charges, criminal trespass, or some marijuana cases
- Class C misdemeanors cover offenses like public intoxication and disorderly conduct
These classifications influence everything from bail amounts to whether probation is available. While Texas Penal Code § 12.03 outlines the rules, sentencing is never automatic. Judges look at the full picture before making decisions, so it is important to have someone who knows how to advocate for you in court.
Does a Misdemeanor Result in Jail?
Even though misdemeanors are considered lower-level offenses in Texas, that does not mean jail is off the table. Some charges carry mandatory jail time, especially if there are prior convictions or aggravating details. That said, first-time offenders are often eligible for sentencing alternatives that focus on rehabilitation instead of incarceration.
When Jail Time Is Mandatory vs. Avoidable
Judges in Harris County look at several factors when deciding whether a jail sentence is appropriate. If the charge involves violence, repeated misconduct, or public safety concerns, jail becomes more likely. The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 42A.102 guides judges on when probation or diversion may be considered, but it also gives them room to require jail if circumstances call for it.
Alternative Sentencing Options in Harris County
You may qualify for community supervision or deferred adjudication if this is your first offense or the case involves nonviolent behavior. Harris County courts often offer options like treatment programs, anger management, or community service instead of jail. These alternatives not only keep you out of custody but also give you a chance to avoid a conviction on your record altogether.
Can Misdemeanors Be Expunged?
Getting a misdemeanor off your record can make a big difference when it comes to jobs, housing, and peace of mind. In Texas, that usually means pursuing either expungement or nondisclosure, depending on the outcome of your case. Whether or not you qualify depends on how your case was resolved and what type of charge it was.
Understanding Eligibility for Expungement
Some misdemeanor charges can be completely erased from your record through expungement. This is usually an option if your case was dismissed, you were acquitted, or you successfully completed a diversion program. According to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 55.01, you may also qualify if you were arrested but never formally charged.
Expungement means the charge is wiped clean, as if it never happened. That can open doors when it comes to housing, licensing, and employment. Not all charges are eligible, but when they are, this is often the most powerful option.
Nondisclosure for Resolved Cases
If your case ended with a plea or deferred adjudication, sealing your record through an order of nondisclosure may be an option. These orders limit who can see your criminal history and are often available after a waiting period. For many people, nondisclosure offers a second chance without having to fully explain a past mistake every time a background check is run.
Unlike expungement, nondisclosure does not erase the charge entirely. However, it keeps the record out of view for most employers, landlords, and schools. For many first-time offenders, it is a practical way to protect their future without going through another court fight.
Call Our Houston Misdemeanor Lawyers Today
Even a low-level charge can follow you for years and affect where you live or work. When you speak with your misdemeanor attorney in Houston from Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC, you get guidance from a team that understands what is at stake. If you are ready to take the next step, contact us now for trusted support and straight answers.