What happens if I get a Class C misdemeanor in Texas?
James Craig
Published Jan 09, 2026
The penalty for a Class C misdemeanor conviction is typically a fine of up to $500. Paying this fine is an admission of guilt. There is no jail time for a conviction. This makes Class C misdemeanors different from all other misdemeanors and felonies.
How serious is a Class C misdemeanor in Texas?
A Class C misdemeanor is the least serious of all crimes charged in Texas. When convicted of a Class C misdemeanor, there isn't any chance of having to serve a jail sentence. There is, however, a fine that could be as high as $500.
How much is a Class C misdemeanor ticket in Texas?
What is a Class C Misdemeanor? A Class C misdemeanor is the lowest possible punishment in Texas. The maximum punishment is a fine of $500.
What is considered a Class C misdemeanor in Texas?
Examples of criminal offenses that are charged as Class C misdemeanors include. In addition, certain alcohol-related crimes, such as minors in possession of alcoholic beverages and public intoxication are typically charged as Class C misdemeanors and may be expunged, even if there was a plea bargain.
Can you go to jail for a Class C misdemeanor in Texas?
They are the least severe type of misdemeanor. However, they are still more serious than infractions. Convictions for Class C misdemeanors carry up to $500 in fines. Unlike other criminal offenses, there is no jail time for a Class C misdemeanor.
32 related questions foundDo misdemeanors go away in Texas?
Legally speaking, a misdemeanor is on your record for life. However, in some cases, background checks will only go back a certain number of years. For instance, in Texas, there is a “seven-year rule” in place discussed more below.
Can you get a Class C misdemeanor expunged in Texas?
In Texas, a Class C Misdemeanor may be removed from a person's record or “expunged” 180 days after the date of the person's arrest. Class A and Class B misdemeanors may be expunged after one year from the date of the arrest.
Will a Class C misdemeanor show up on a background check in Texas?
Additionally, a Class C misdemeanor could show up on a criminal background check, which could affect decisions regarding employment. In some cases, a Class C Misdemeanor might be an indicator of dishonesty or disrespect for the law.
Can I buy a gun with a Class C misdemeanor in Texas?
A Class A, Class B, or Class C misdemeanor conviction or deferred adjudication will not prohibit a person's purchase or possession of firearms, excepting findings of family violence as outlined above.
How long does it take to get a Class C misdemeanor expunged in Texas?
Even if there were no charges, there is a minimum waiting period before filing an application for expunction: Class C misdemeanors: 180 days. Class A and B misdemeanors: 1 year.
What is the lowest misdemeanor you can get?
A “Class C” Misdemeanor is the lowest level of crime and can result in a fine of up to $500. Crimes defined as Class C Misdemeanors include: Most Traffic Tickets.
What is a Class C ticket?
A class C ticket is a fine only offense that is typically handled in a municipal court. But in some instances repeated Class C convictions can be used to enhance someone into higher penalties. Furthermore, some Class C violations carry specific requirements.
Can I get a concealed weapons permit with a misdemeanor in Texas?
In the state of Texas, you will not be given an LTC if you have been convicted of a class A or B misdemeanor within the last 5 years. This means, if you have a DWI (a class B misdemeanor) less than 5 years ago, you will not be allowed to obtain your LTC.
Can a person with a misdemeanor own a gun in Texas?
If the abuser has been convicted of a crime, can s/he keep or buy a gun? Under Texas law, anyone convicted of a Class A domestic violence misdemeanor cannot have a gun for 5 years following his/her release from jail/ prison or community supervision.
Can you buy a gun with a pending misdemeanor in Texas?
Dismissed misdemeanor charges do not affect your ability to purchase a gun on their own.
How much does it cost to get a Class C misdemeanor expunged in Texas?
Class C's that you have received deferred adjudications on and haven't been convicted of a felony within 5 years can qualify you to have those Class C's expunged. The cost of the Class C expunction should cost around $1,000. This price may or may not include filing fees.
How long does a misdemeanor stay on your record in Illinois?
If you were convicted of a misdemeanor or felony , you can seal 3 years after the end of your last sentence. This also applies if you successfully completed special, qualified probation (like 710-1410 or TASC). Certain convictions may not be sealed until you are no longer required to register.
How long does a misdemeanor stay on your record in Arkansas?
In Arkansas: You must wait 60 days after completing your sentence if the records involve a non-violent misdemeanor. If the records involve a violent or sexual misdemeanor, you must wait five years and 60 days after completing your sentence. You must wait five years after completing probation for felony convictions.
How much does it cost to get a misdemeanor expunged in Texas?
Expunging misdemeanors typically costs $1,000 or less. For any record expungement or expunction, a filing fee of $300 applies and is a required part of the expungement process. In Texas, expungements typically cost around $1,500 on average.
What is a Class C assault in Texas?
Under Texas law, you can be charged with a class c assault if you intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact with another person when such contact can be regarded as offensive or provocative. You can also be charged with class c assault if you threaten another with imminent bodily injury.
Does a misdemeanor show up on a background check after 7 years?
A misdemeanor stays on your record for life unless you successfully petition for expungement. There is no preset “expiration date” for misdemeanor crimes. Even though misdemeanor offenses are less serious than felonies, they are still serious breaches in the eyes of the law.
What are the fines and jail time in Texas for a Class C misdemeanor?
In Texas, Class C misdemeanors are the lowest level of criminal offense. They can include a fine of no more than $500 and no jail time. But you still have a right to a trial, which can be held in Municipal Court, Traffic Court, or a Justice of the Peace Court.
Can I expunge my record myself in Texas?
Most people can file and successfully process their own Texas expungement forms without the assistance of a lawyer. All you need is the proper forms and easy step-by-step instructions to complete your Texas expungement.
Can you be a teacher with a misdemeanor in Texas?
So, to answer the question: Can you be a teacher in Texas with a misdemeanor? Yes, technically you can be. This being said, it's still a very high possibility that you can be let go from your position, especially if the offense occurred during your employment.
What disqualifies you from getting a concealed carry permit in Texas?
A number of factors may make you ineligible to obtain a license, such as: felony convictions and some misdemeanor convictions, including charges that resulted in probation or deferred adjudication; pending criminal charges; chemical or alcohol dependency; certain types of psychological diagnoses protective or ...