Denton DWI Attorney

What is a Felony?

In Texas, a felony is a serious crime such as burglary or theft of more than $1,500, aggravated assault, homicide, kidnapping, violations of federal drug or gun laws, crimes causing harm to property, and rape. All felony convictions are subject to a year or more in a state jail or prison.

Felonies in Texas are divided into 3 degrees of seriousness as well as capital and state jail felonies. The three general classifications are 1st through 3rd degree with 1st degree being the most serious of the general classifications.

Capital felony is the most serious felony charge. This is the only classification of crime that is eligible for capital punishment or life imprisonment. It applies to capital murder charges only. Capital murder is defined by six instances. These are killing a peace officer or fireman; murder in conjunction with kidnapping, burglary, robbery, aggravated sexual assault, or arson; murder for hire; murdering multiple people; or murdering a child younger than 6 years old.

First degree felonies include things like murder, aggravate sexual assault, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, arson involving a place of worship or that causes injury, and theft or criminal mischief with damages or value of $100,000 or more. These crimes are eligible for between 5 and 99 years imprisonment and or a fine of up to $10,000.

Second degree felonies are things like murder, manslaughter, indecency with a child by sexual conduct, sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault, arson, burglary of a house or residence, as well as theft or criminal mischief.

Third degree felonies are such crimes as kidnapping, a second or more conviction for stalking, violating a protective order, a third DWI conviction, and theft and criminal mischief.

State Jail Felony is the least serious felony charge. These crimes include criminally negligent homicide, burglary of a building, criminal nonsupport, and forgery involving a check or credit card. These crimes have a possible prison sentence of between 6 months and 2 years as well as a possible fine of up to $10,000.

If you or someone you know has been charged with a crime, contact the Denton criminal defense lawyers of Alexander & Associates. The experienced team will help you keep your name and record clear.