What Are the Most Common Misdemeanor Charges in San Antonio — and Their Penalties?

If you've been charged with a misdemeanor in San Antonio or anywhere in Bexar County, you're not alone. Thousands of people face misdemeanor charges every year — and many underestimate how serious they can be.

Even though misdemeanors are considered “less serious” than felonies, they can still lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that follows you for years.

At Texas Defenders, we help people fight misdemeanor charges across San Antonio and surrounding areas — because your future is too important to leave to chance.

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Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in Texas

In Texas, misdemeanors are divided into three classes:

• Class A Misdemeanor

  • Up to 1 year in county jail

  • Up to $4,000 fine

• Class B Misdemeanor

  • Up to 180 days in jail

  • Up to $2,000 fine

• Class C Misdemeanor

  • Fine only (up to $500)

  • No jail time

Even a Class C charge can still create a criminal record, which can affect jobs, housing, and background checks.

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Most Common Misdemeanor Charges in San Antonio

1. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) – First Offense

One of the most common charges in Bexar County.

Penalties may include:

• Up to 180 days in jail

• Up to $2,000 fine

• Driver's license suspension

• Possible ignition interlock device

A DWI conviction can also impact your insurance, employment, and future opportunities.

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2. Assault (Class A Misdemeanor)

This often involves allegations of:

• Family violence

• Domestic disputes

• Physical altercations

Penalties:

• Up to 1 year in jail

• Up to $4,000 fine

• Protective orders

• Loss of firearm rights (in family violence cases)

These cases are aggressively prosecuted in Bexar County.

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3. Theft (Shoplifting and Property Theft)

The severity depends on the value of the property:

• Under $100 → Class C

• $100–$750 → Class B

• $750–$2,500 → Class A

Penalties range from fines to up to 1 year in jail.

A theft conviction is especially damaging because it's considered a crime of dishonesty.

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4. Possession of Marijuana (Under 2 Ounces)

Still commonly charged in San Antonio despite shifting policies elsewhere.

Penalties:

• Up to 180 days in jail

• Up to $2,000 fine

Even small amounts can lead to arrest and a criminal record.

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5. Criminal Trespass

This occurs when someone:

• Enters or remains on property without permission

• Ignores posted warnings or requests to leave

Penalties:

• Class B or Class A depending on circumstances

• Up to 1 year in jail (in enhanced cases)

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6. Disorderly Conduct

Examples include:

• Fighting in public

• Making unreasonable noise

• Displaying a firearm in a threatening way

Typically charged as a Class C misdemeanor, but still creates a record.

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7. Public Intoxication

Very common in downtown San Antonio, especially around nightlife areas.

Penalty:

• Fine up to $500

While it may seem minor, repeated offenses can cause bigger legal issues.

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Why Misdemeanor Charges Are Serious

Many people think, “It's just a misdemeanor.”

That mindset can cost you.

A conviction can:

• Stay on your record permanently

• Show up on background checks

• Affect employment and housing

• Be used against you in future cases

In some situations, a misdemeanor can even be enhanced into a felony if you have prior convictions.

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How a San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

Every case has weaknesses — but you need someone who knows how to find them.

At Texas Defenders, we:

• Challenge the evidence

• Identify illegal searches or arrests

• Negotiate dismissals and reductions

• Fight for you in court when necessary

Our goal is always the same: protect your record and your future.

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Charged With a Misdemeanor in San Antonio? Call Now.

If you or someone you know is facing a misdemeanor charge in San Antonio, Bexar County, or surrounding areas, don't wait to get legal help.

📞 Call Texas Defenders: 210-942-4441
📍 101 Stumberg St, #112, San Antonio, TX 78204

We handle serious misdemeanor and felony cases across South Texas — and we show up ready to fight.

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Misdemeanor charges in San Antonio can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. The most common offenses include DWI, assault, theft, and drug possession. If you're facing charges in Bexar County, speaking with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible can help protect your rights and improve your outcome.

The biggest mistake people make with misdemeanors is taking them lightly.

Because once it's on your record — it's no joke.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Misdemeanor Charges in San Antonio

What is the most common misdemeanor in San Antonio?

Some of the most common misdemeanor charges in San Antonio include DWI (first offense), assault, theft, possession of marijuana, and public intoxication. These charges are frequently filed in Bexar County and can carry serious penalties depending on the circumstances.

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Can you go to jail for a misdemeanor in Texas?

Yes. In Texas, Class A and Class B misdemeanors can result in jail time. A Class A misdemeanor can lead to up to 1 year in county jail, while a Class B misdemeanor can result in up to 180 days in jail.

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What is the punishment for a Class A misdemeanor in Texas?

A Class A misdemeanor is the most serious type of misdemeanor in Texas. It is punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Examples include assault causing bodily injury and certain theft charges.

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Will a misdemeanor stay on my record in Texas?

Yes. A misdemeanor conviction will stay on your criminal record permanently unless it is sealed through nondisclosure or removed through expunction. This can affect employment, housing, and background checks.

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Can a misdemeanor be dismissed in San Antonio?

Yes. Many misdemeanor cases in Bexar County can be dismissed depending on the facts of the case, the evidence, and your criminal history. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case and fight for dismissal or reduction.

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Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge?

Yes — especially for Class A or Class B misdemeanors. Even though they are considered “less serious” than felonies, they can still result in jail time and a permanent record. A lawyer can help protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

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What happens if I ignore a misdemeanor charge in Texas?

Ignoring a misdemeanor charge can lead to a warrant for your arrest. This can result in additional charges, higher bond amounts, and more serious consequences. It's important to address the charge as soon as possible.

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How long does a misdemeanor case take in Bexar County?

Misdemeanor cases in Bexar County can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial.

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Can a misdemeanor be reduced to a lesser charge?

In some cases, yes. A misdemeanor charge may be reduced through negotiation with the prosecutor, especially if there are weaknesses in the evidence or mitigating factors involved.

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What should I do if I'm charged with a misdemeanor in San Antonio?

You should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Avoid discussing your case with anyone else, and do not assume the charge is minor. Early legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome.