Beaumont Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer

Experienced Misdemeanor Defense Attorney in Beaumont

A misdemeanor, while distinct from a felony in Texas, still represents a serious matter deserving of attention. Facing a misdemeanor conviction means potential jail time, significant fines, a permanent criminal record, and difficulties securing or keeping employment or professional licenses. A Beaumont misdemeanor defense lawyer can review the particulars of the alleged offense and build an appropriate defense for you.

Renick Law Firm, PLLC and Attorney Renick defend clients charged with misdemeanor crimes in Beaumont and across Jefferson County.

About Renick Law Firm, PLLC

Renick Law Firm, PLLC offers clients personal representation by a second-generation Texan and former prosecutor. The firm works criminal defense cases as well as personal injury and insurance claims, allowing clients to work directly with an attorney who knows how prosecutors view criminal charges and how courtrooms operate. We’ll look at the specifics of your situation, not just treat it like any other case.

Misdemeanor Laws in Texas

Texas law categorizes misdemeanors into Classes A, B, and C. Your misdemeanor class designation matters because it sets the maximum criminal penalties you could face if convicted. According to Texas Penal Code §§ 12.21-12.23, misdemeanor punishments are as follows:  

• Class A misdemeanor. Up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
• Class B misdemeanor. Up to 180 days in jail and up to $2,000 in fines.
• Class C misdemeanor. Up to a $500 fine, but no jail sentence authorized by the misdemeanor’s ordinary Class C punishment provision.

Not every misdemeanor case starts as a Class A, B, or C offense. The offense itself typically determines your case’s misdemeanor class. Aggravating factors and prior convictions can also matter. For instance, Texas Penal Code § 22.01generally makes assault causing bodily injury a Class A misdemeanor, but an assault can become a felony under certain circumstances.

Misdemeanor Cases in Texas Courts

Texas is no stranger to misdemeanor cases. A variety of offenses can lead to misdemeanor charges, including: 

• Assault
• Theft
• Criminal trespass
• DWI
• Disorderly conduct
• Some traffic offenses

Misdemeanor prosecutions constitute a large percentage of Texas criminal courts’ caseload. For instance, the Texas Office of Court Administration noted 73,882 total active misdemeanor cases in fiscal year 2025. Out of those, 18,535 theft offenses and 25,972 family violence assaults remained active in those courts.

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor and the case proceeds to trial, it may likely be heard at the Jefferson County Courthouse located at 1149 Pearl Street, Beaumont, TX 77701.

Defenses in a Misdemeanor Case

Potential defenses depend on what the prosecutors need to prove and how the evidence was gathered. For instance, a Beaumont misdemeanor lawyer may investigate if police had probable cause to detain or search you, if witnesses made conflicting statements, if video does not support an allegation, or if prosecutors can prove you acted with the necessary mental state.

Affirmative or statutory defenses may also apply to your case. Self-defense could become an issue in an assault case depending on the facts. A case could also involve defenses concerning your awareness of possessing illegal property, your intent behind a particular action, or whether you were the actual individual responsible.

Hire a Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer

When you hire a misdemeanor defense lawyer, they can obtain and review police reports, dash cam video, witness statements, lab results, photographs, and more discovery. Your attorney can investigate potential evidentiary suppression, contest evidence that doesn’t align with the charges against you, attempt to negotiate with the prosecution when feasible, and build your defense for trial if a good settlement can’t be arranged.

Your Beaumont misdemeanor defense attorney can also let you know if getting the charges dropped, negotiating a plea deal, or pursuing deferred adjudication are possibilities. The most effective defense hinges on the specifics of your situation, the charges you face, your record, and how open the prosecutor is to a deal.

FAQs

Can a Misdemeanor Conviction Affect My Employment?

Yes, most misdemeanor convictions show up during a criminal background check and could impact certain employment opportunities. Work that requires professional licensing, security clearance, driving, or interaction with children and vulnerable populations could be affected.

Whether or not a misdemeanor hurts employment opportunities largely depends on the offense and the employer. Texas law does allow for certain criminal records to be sealed from the public. Eligibility depends on the charge, disposition, and criminal history.

Do I Have to Go to Court if I Am Being Charged With a Misdemeanor in Texas?

Yes, you have to go to court if you are being charged with a misdemeanor in Texas. Defendants are typically required to attend all scheduled court proceedings for their misdemeanor case unless the court allows them to be excused or the applicable court rules permit them to waive their appearance. Failure to appear for a required court date can cause additional legal issues, including the potential issuance of a warrant for your arrest.

Can Misdemeanor Charges Be Expunged in Texas?

In some cases, misdemeanor charges can be expunged in Texas. However, being accused of a misdemeanor in Texas doesn’t automatically qualify you for expunction. Instead, eligibility for expunction depends on the final disposition of your case.

An order of nondisclosure is another option. It does not destroy criminal records as an expunction does. Rather, it prohibits the release of certain criminal information to the general public.

Will a Misdemeanor Show Up on a Background Check in Texas?

Yes, a misdemeanor can show up on a background check in Texas. Pending misdemeanor charges, misdemeanor convictions, and even arrests may show up when someone runs a criminal background check, depending on what records are looked at and which rules apply to those records.

Contact Renick Law Firm, PLLC

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor in Beaumont, Renick Law Firm, PLLC can look at your case. We strive to build an appropriate defense and advocate for your rights and a favorable future. Contact us today for a consultation and to begin speaking with an attorney.