The Texas Penal Code sets out many different types of criminal conduct for which people can face harsh penalties. Some people might think they can handle seemingly minor criminal cases on their own, but this is never wise. If you face any type of allegations in criminal court, you want to consult with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Criminal Offenses in Texas

Crimes can be classified into several categories based on the nature and severity of the offense. Here are some of the most common types of crimes under Texas law.

Alcohol-Related Crimes

Many criminal laws regulate the use of alcohol in Texas. Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is the most common alcohol-related crime, but you can also face accusations of boating while intoxicated, public intoxication, possessing alcohol in a motor vehicle, underage drinking, or even intoxication assault or intoxication manslaughter in the event of a drunk driving accident-causing injuries or death.

Property Crimes

These are offenses that involve the theft or destruction of property belonging to others. Examples include burglary, theft, robbery, arson, and vandalism.

Burglary is the unauthorized entry into a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft. Theft involves taking someone else’s property without their permission. Robbery is a more serious offense that involves using force or the threat of force to steal from someone, and it can be armed robbery if it involves a deadly weapon. Arson is the intentional setting of fire to someone else’s property. Vandalism is the act of destroying or defacing property belonging to others.

Violent Crimes

These are offenses that involve the use or threat of violence against another person. Examples include assault, battery, homicide, and domestic violence.

Assault is the act of threatening or attempting to cause harm to another person. Battery involves physical contact that results in harm to another person. Homicide is the killing of another person, which can be classified as murder, manslaughter, or justifiable homicide. Domestic violence is violence that occurs within a household or intimate relationship.

Violent crimes are often punished more seriously than other offenses, and many convictions result in prison time without the proper defense.

Drug Crimes

These are offenses related to the possession, sale, distribution, or manufacture of illegal drugs. Examples include drug possession, drug trafficking, and drug manufacturing.

Drug possession involves the illegal possession of drugs for personal use. Drug trafficking involves the sale and distribution of drugs. Drug manufacturing involves the creation of illegal drugs. Penalties can vary widely depending on the type of drug, amount of drugs, and specific conduct alleged.

White Collar Crimes

These are non-violent crimes committed in a business or professional setting for financial gain. Examples include embezzlement, fraud, and insider trading.

Embezzlement involves the theft of money or property belonging to an employer. Fraud involves deception or misrepresentation for financial gain. Insider trading involves the illegal use of non-public information to make a profit in the stock market. Even though these are financial crimes, the law still punishes them harshly.

Cyber Crimes

These are offenses committed using the internet or other forms of technology. Examples include hacking, identity theft, and online harassment.

Hacking involves gaining unauthorized access to computer systems or networks. Identity theft involves the use of someone else’s personal information for financial gain. Online harassment involves the use of the internet to harass or intimidate others. Cyber crimes might be charged on the federal level, as well.

Sex Crimes

These are offenses that involve sexual activity without the consent of the other party. Examples include rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. Rape involves non-consensual sexual intercourse. Sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual contact. Sexual harassment involves unwanted sexual advances or behavior. Many sex offenses can lead to sex offender registry for years or the rest of your life. 

Traffic Violations

These are offenses related to the operation of motor vehicles on public roads. Speeding, following too closely, failing to yield or signal, and other violations can result in fines and marks on your driving record. Reckless driving is a more serious traffic offense that involves driving in a manner that endangers others.

Speak with an Austin Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

No matter what kind of criminal charge you face, the Law Office of David D. White, PLLC is ready to help. We defend against many types of offenses, so please contact us today to discuss your situation.