Petty Theft & Shoplifting
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF CHARGES IN TEXAS
You may be charged with criminal mischief under Texas law for certain crimes against the property of others. If you are facing criminal mischief charges anywhere in Williamson County, I advise you to contact me for legal guidance and advice. As a Georgetown criminal defense attorney who handles these types of cases, I can review your case and advise you on where you stand and what needs to be done in your defense. I have defended hundreds of individuals throughout the area.
WHAT IS CRIMINAL MISCHIEF?
Criminal mischief consists of intentionally or knowingly damaging another’s property, tampering with another’s property which causes loss or substantial inconvenience, or intentionally marking, inscribing, drawing or creating graffiti on another’s property. How you will be charged will be based on the facts of the case, including the value of the damage done to the other person’s property.
If the damage is $50 or less, you will be charged with a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of a $500 fine. Damage valued between $50 and $500 is generally charged as a Class B misdemeanor, which carries penalties of up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $2,000. You may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor for damage valued between $500 and $1,500, carrying penalties of up to one year in jail and fines of up to $4,000.
More serious crimes of criminal mischief may be charged as state jail felonies, or third, second or first degree felonies. These crimes involve damage valued at much higher amounts, damage done by fire or explosion, or damage done to properties involving fences holding in livestock or game animals.
In any criminal mischief charges, whether a misdemeanor or felony, it is important to have a qualified criminal defense attorney handling your case. I have the experience and dedication needed to be effective in your defense. Contact The Law Office of Clovis Martin today for help in your criminal case.