What to Know When the Stakes Are at Their Highest
Not all criminal cases are handled the same way—especially in Dallas County. The difference between a misdemeanor and a first-degree felony is not just a matter of severity on paper. It affects how a case is investigated, how prosecutors approach it, what resources are involved, and what is truly at risk for the accused.
At MC Criminal Law, our FAQ Series is designed to answer the questions people ask when they are trying to understand what they’re facing and why it matters. Our criminal defense attorneys handle cases across the full spectrum of Texas criminal law and know that understanding the process early can make a critical difference in how a case is defended.
Today’s FAQ addresses an important procedural question we hear often:
FAQ: How is a First-Degree Felony case handled differently than a Misdemeanor in Dallas County?
The entire procedural track is different and significantly more serious. Misdemeanor punishment ranges are up to a year in jail, while Felony punishments can be anywhere from probation to life in prison.
MC Tip
Most people understand the severity of a felony, but what many don’t realize is that a misdemeanor can derail someone’s future as well. An experienced criminal defense attorney can change outcomes in both types of cases, but the odds are better for someone who hires early – even before charges are filed. There are ways defense can intervene and get the case rejected or ensure the client does not need to take time off work and appear until they have a resolution. Call us today for a free consultation to learn about your options for your charges in Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, and Denton counties and the surrounding areas.