DWI / DUI
Texas Penal Code §49.04 classifies DWI as a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense, escalating to felony status with prior convictions or aggravating factors.
Learn More →
Misdemeanor Charges
MISDEMEANOR BAIL BONDS IN DALLAS COUNTY
Texas classifies misdemeanors into three levels — Class C, Class B, and Class A — with penalties ranging from fines only to up to one year in county jail. While misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, an arrest still means booking at Lew Sterrett Justice Center and time away from your family and job. Dallas County processes thousands of misdemeanor cases every year, from first-offense DWI and simple assault to theft under $2,500 and public intoxication. Act Quick Bail Bonds posts misdemeanor bonds at Lew Sterrett around the clock so your loved one can come home and prepare a proper defense. Call (214) 744-1414 for immediate help.
Misdemeanor Charge Types
BAIL BONDS FOR MISDEMEANOR CHARGES IN DALLAS COUNTY
Select a charge type below to learn about the misdemeanor bond process, typical bond amounts, and what to expect at Lew Sterrett Justice Center.
Drug Possession
Texas Health and Safety Code §481 governs drug possession charges, with penalties ranging from a Class B misdemeanor to a first-degree felony based on substance type and quantity.
Learn More →Assault
Texas Penal Code §22.01 defines assault charges ranging from Class C misdemeanor for threats to second-degree felony for assaults against public servants.
Learn More →Theft
Texas Penal Code §31.03 classifies theft by the value of property stolen, from Class C misdemeanor for items under $100 to first-degree felony for values exceeding $300,000.
Learn More →Public Intoxication
Public intoxication under Texas Penal Code §49.02 is a Class C misdemeanor, but repeated offenses or additional circumstances can complicate the release process.
Learn More →Trespassing
Criminal trespass under Texas Penal Code §30.05 is a Class B misdemeanor that escalates when the trespass involves a habitation or the defendant carries a weapon.
Learn More →Criminal Mischief
Criminal mischief in Texas covers intentional damage to property and is classified from a Class C misdemeanor to a first-degree felony based on the dollar amount of damage caused.
Learn More →Terroristic Threat
Terroristic threat charges under Texas Penal Code §22.07 range from Class B misdemeanor to third-degree felony depending on the nature of the threat and its target.
Learn More →Domestic Violence
Family violence charges in Dallas County carry enhanced penalties and mandatory protective orders that significantly impact the bond process and release conditions.
Learn More →Evading Arrest
Evading arrest under Texas Penal Code §38.04 ranges from a Class A misdemeanor for fleeing on foot to a felony when a vehicle is involved or someone is injured.
Learn More →Fraud / Forgery
Texas prosecutes fraud and forgery offenses under multiple Penal Code sections, with charge levels ranging from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies based on the amount involved and type of instrument.
Learn More →Classification Guide
MISDEMEANOR CLASSIFICATIONS IN TEXAS
Understanding the misdemeanor classification system helps families anticipate bond amounts and potential penalties when a loved one is arrested in Dallas County.
| Classification | Jail Time | Maximum Fine | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class C Misdemeanor | No jail time — fine only | $500 | Public intoxication, minor traffic offenses, theft under $100 |
| Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | $2,000 | First-offense DWI, criminal trespass, theft $100–$750, marijuana possession under 2 oz |
| Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $4,000 | Assault causing bodily injury, DWI with BAC over 0.15, theft $750–$2,500, trespass in a habitation |
Bond amounts follow the Dallas County bond schedule but can be adjusted by the magistrate based on criminal history, flight risk, and the circumstances of the offense.
Common Questions
MISDEMEANOR BAIL BOND FAQ — DALLAS COUNTY
What is the difference between Class A, Class B, and Class C misdemeanors in Texas?
Class C misdemeanors are fine-only offenses with no jail time. Class B misdemeanors carry up to 180 days in county jail and a $2,000 fine. Class A misdemeanors carry up to one year in county jail and a $4,000 fine. Dallas County bond amounts increase with each classification level.
Are misdemeanor defendants eligible for PR bonds in Dallas County?
Dallas County Pretrial Services evaluates misdemeanor defendants for personal recognizance bond eligibility. First-time offenders with stable housing, employment, and no history of failure to appear are the strongest candidates. Class C misdemeanors typically do not require a bond at all.
How quickly can someone bond out on a misdemeanor charge at Lew Sterrett?
Misdemeanor cases are often magistrated faster than felonies at Lew Sterrett Justice Center. Once the magistrate sets bond, a licensed bail bond agent can post the bond immediately. Release processing times vary depending on current facility volume.
Can a misdemeanor charge be enhanced to a felony in Dallas County?
Yes. Several misdemeanor offenses escalate to felony charges with aggravating factors. A DWI becomes a third-degree felony on a third conviction, assault becomes a felony with prior family violence findings, and theft reaches state jail felony status at $2,500 or with two prior theft convictions.