Search Site
Menu
130 E. Travis Street, Suite 425 | San Antonio, Texas 78205
Free Consultation (210) 227-1500
Home / Criminal Defense / Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors

San Antonio Misdemeanors Defense Lawyer Protects Your Rights

Aggressive Texas lawyer focuses on positive results no matter the charge

A misdemeanor might not sound like a big deal, but this kind of charge is serious and can result in fines, jail time, and community service. A conviction results in a record that can affect your reputation, educational and career opportunities, and even loan applications. If you are charged with a misdemeanor offense, Tylden Shaeffer, Attorney at Law, P.C. in San Antonio is prepared to help. I am one of the few board-certified criminal law attorneys in Central Texas and draw on many years as a prosecutor and defense attorney. I have the knowledge, skill and determination to pursue the best possible result in your case, whether that’s an acquittal, dismissal or plea deal.

Texas misdemeanor categories and penalties

Texas law has three categories of misdemeanors, grouped according to the severity of the offense and the corresponding penalty:

  • Class A — These are the most serious misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $4,000, or both a fine and confinement. Class A misdemeanors include a second-offense DWI, assault causing bodily injury, possession of two-to-four ounces of marijuana, and violating an order of protection. Some instances of domestic violence can be charged as Class A misdemeanors.
  • Class B — Offenses in this mid-level category are punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, or both a fine and confinement. Examples of Class B misdemeanors are first-offense DWI, possession of up to two ounces of marijuana, theft of property valued at $50 to $500, failure to pay child support, indecent exposure, filing a false police report, prostitution, vandalism and making a terroristic threat.
  • Class C — This lowest level of criminal offense does not allow any jail time, but fines can run as high as $500. Examples of Class C misdemeanors are petty theft of property valued at less than $100, driving without a valid license, public intoxication and disorderly conduct.

If you have a prior conviction, prosecutors might be able to charge a higher class of misdemeanor or even a felony. Misdemeanor crimes have a two-year statute of limitations, which means the authorities can charge you within two years of the date of the alleged offense.

Don’t let a misdemeanor conviction cast a shadow over your future

Misdemeanor convictions shouldn’t be taken lightly. In addition to jail time, a fine and community service, you carry the stigma of being a convicted criminal. If you apply for a job, a car loan, or a mortgage, or want to enroll in an educational program, you can be asked if you have ever been convicted of a crime. Your conviction could exclude you from these and other opportunities. If you are arrested in the future, your prior conviction can be the basis for enhanced charges and greater penalties.

The only option is to fight the charges as aggressively and professionally as possible. When you retain my services, you get a board-certified attorney. This means the Texas Board of Legal Specialization has decided that by virtue of experience, accomplishment, advanced study and testing, I rank as a specialist in criminal law, a distinction held by very few attorneys in Central Texas. I also offer free consultations, so you can meet me without any upfront cost to decide if I am the right lawyer for you.

Contact a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney for misdemeanor charges in San Antonio

A misdemeanor conviction can do lasting harm to your reputation and your future opportunities. Tylden Shaeffer, Attorney at Law, P.C. is an experienced criminal defense lawyer who will fight for your rights and a favorable outcome against any misdemeanor charge. To schedule a free consultation, call (210) 227-1500 or contact my San Antonio office online today.

Testimonials

  • "Mr Shaeffer was up front from the beginning, and I respected that. He told me they have a solid case against me. He is a very out of the box thinker, and very organized. He told me the sad reality of" - Nicoli

  • "I found Mr. Shaeffer to be very responsive, effective, and strategic. There was never any doubt in my mind that he had my best interest at the forefront of his efforts in handling my case." - Ron

  • "When you have been wrongfully accused of having an affair with a student, you must acquire legal counsel before you even speak to the police, even if you are the person who reports the rumors. Tylden Schaeffer advised me to not have a second interview with the police department and found time in his schedule to meet with me that day. After the meeting, I had a path to move forward on and that included a well written statement that Mr. Schaeffer crafted. After submitting this in lieu of a second interview with the police, there were no more problems with the school district or police department. Mr. Schaeffer did a superb job and had me resting more easily following our meetings. I would highly recommend Mr. Schaeffer to anyone in need of a Criminal Defense Attorney." - Anonymous

  • "Tylden has been nothing but excellent while representing me. He’s been very upfront, honest, and cooperative with not only myself, but with my family as well. I don’t just feel like a number, he treats you like if you’re his only client. I’d definitely recommend him to anybody I know if they are in need of legal help. 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend Tylden Shaeffer!" - Joel

  • "Mr Shaeffer was up front from the beginning, and I respected that. He told me they have a solid case against me. He is a very out of the box thinker, and very organized. He told me the sad reality of what could potentially be the outcome of my case, and it was dim. However he asked me what i wanted and was creative enough to deliver at an extremely affordable price. He has the knowledge to defend you, and the experience to win. I’m very happy with how he handled my case. His office is also only blocks away from the court house and he is always prompt. I don’t usually write reviews, but Mr. Tylden Shaeffer deserves to be recognized." - Nicoli

  • "When I got charged with my DWI I already expected to go through a long, painful process from the beginning. But, Mr. Shaeffer and his staff made my whole experience quick and easy with their great communication and professionalism. He was always straight forward and I could tell he had my best interest in mind. He made sure I didn’t get charged with “extreme intoxication”, while also reducing my fines and the length of my probation. I highly recommend him to anyone!" - Alex

  • "Mr. Shaeffer is a great attorney , very professional, very nice and is willing to work with you and help u threw any situation u may have or need help with . I recommend Mr. Shaeffer to anyone who needs help with any kind of legal issues or problems. Anyone who has asked me about an attorney i most definitely tell them Mr. Shaeffer and give them his info. Thank you for all your help and everything u have done for me and my family. You are a awesome attorney! Highly Recommend" - Anonymous

  • "Tylden is a fantastic attorney. He thoroughly prepared for my case and did an amazing job of relating to the judge and jury. I highly recommend Tylden. Would recommend to anyone!" - Skyler

  • "Tylden got my felony reduced to a misdemeanor. He saved my life. I didn’t have to pester him for information and updates about my case and his staff is well informed and helpful. He personally attended each and every one of my hearings and was just as concerned about restoring my reputation as I was. He recently got a motion for non-disclosure filed and approved by the judge so I will never have to admit this mistake ever happened. I would recommend Tylden to anyone! He is a highly intelligent and competent attorney. The Best!" - Anonymous

  • "I was represented by Mr. Shaeffer years ago (2004). He would travel from San Antonio all the way to Del Rio to represent me. My father and I were accused of wrong doing by federal agents and we had done nothing. We, my father and I were on trial simultaneously. We had hired an attorney and found out later he was friends with the prosecutor and wanted us to accept a plea bargain. “We did nothing wrong”, I cried to him. He insisted that we accept due to it being impossible to beat the Government. My father and I were close to giving up when we met Mr. Shaeffer. Mr. Shaeffer believed in us and fought for us. Because of him, I never saw prison walls nor was I ever away from my family. It was one of the most difficult times in my life, but thankfully we met a Godsend attorney and justice prevailed." - Anonymous

Read More
Case Results
Intoxication Manslaughter – Reduced Sentence

While client was already on probation for DWI when arrested for Intoxication Manslaughter. Client pleaded guilty to the jury and jury awarded probation where State sought prison term from the jury.

Read More >
Contact us

Quick Contact Form