In Texas, Misdemeanors are less serious offenses than felonies, but they still can have an impact on your future and opportunities. Having a misdemeanor on your record can affect employment opportunities, housing applications, educational prospects, and even future legal cases. Whether you are facing misdemeanor charges or are just curious about the impact of prior misdemeanor convictions in Texas, this blog will cover everything you need to know.
Types of Misdemeanors in Texas
Before we discuss how misdemeanor convictions can impact your future, it is important to be aware of the different classifications of misdemeanors in Texas. Texas classifies misdemeanors into three different classes in order of severity: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A misdemeanors are the most serious with the harshest penalties, while Class C is the least serious. Having a more serious classification of a misdemeanor can lead to more serious consequences in the future.
Learn More: The Texas Misdemeanor Classification System: Class A, B, and C
Legal Consequences of Prior Misdemeanor Convictions
One of the most significant legal consequences of having prior misdemeanor convictions is the potential for increased penalties in future cases. If you end up getting another misdemeanor conviction, the judge will most likely increase the penalty such as a longer jail sentence or harsher fines. Under Texas law, sentencing enhancements are allowed if the defendant has prior convictions. For example, if someone gets a second DWI charge, it will be treated more severely than the first.
Another legal consequence of having prior misdemeanor convictions is the opportunity for expungement. Expungement is a legal process that erases a criminal record. In Texas, only certain misdemeanors qualify for expungement. Typically, convictions for misdemeanors are not eligible for expungement unless the case was dismissed, or you were acquitted.
Impact on Daily Activities
Having a prior misdemeanor conviction can also affect many other things in your daily life.
Here are just a few:
- Employment Opportunities: Background checks have become a standard practice for many employers, and misdemeanors can show up on these checks. Yes, having a misdemeanor conviction is less severe than a felony, but it can be a red flag for employers depending on the type of crime. This can make it hard to find stable employment.
- Housing Applications: It can be difficult to find housing with a prior misdemeanor conviction. Landlords may also conduct background checks on prospective tenants. Some landlords may deny housing applications based on criminal records
- Licensing for Certain Professions: Having a misdemeanor charge also affects which types of jobs you can have. Professions such as ones in the healthcare, law, or education fields often don’t allow applicants with a criminal record.
- Educational Opportunities: Prior misdemeanor convictions can keep you from getting into certain educational institutions, especially those with strict admissions policies. Schools do not always deny applicants with a criminal record, but it is something many take into account.
The Lasting Impact of Misdemeanors and Your Path Forward
The list of consequences that can occur from having prior misdemeanor convictions goes on. From employment and housing to professional licensing and educational opportunities, a misdemeanor conviction can impact many different aspects of your life.
If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge or challenges due to a prior misdemeanor conviction in Texas, contact C.L. Swisher Legal Group for experienced legal guidance. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and answer your questions. We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward.
