Class C Misdemeanors

Class "C" Misdemeanors

In addition to class "C" traffic offenses, the Justice of the Peace Court also handles a variety of criminal class "C" misdemeanors. Some of the more common offenses include: Disorderly Conduct, Assault, Public Intoxication, Minor In Possession of Alcoholic Beverage, and Shoplifting. In cases involving alcohol violations, an alcohol awareness course is usually required. In cases involving shoplifting, a home shoplifter’s program may be administered with the consent of the Judge.

     A defendant accused of one of these crimes has the absolute right to plead Not Guilty and request a trial by Judge or Jury. If you choose to go to trial, you will need to post an appearance bond. An appearance bond simply means you are putting up collateral (usually cash) to guarantee your appearance in Court. Once you show up for your trial, the bond is immediately returned to you.

     If you wish to plead Not Guilty, you may also request trial by Judge or Jury. That choice is yours. You are not required to have an attorney in Court, but you may hire one if you wish. The District Attorney of Lubbock County will have an attorney present to prosecute the case against you. In some instances, you may be able to meet with the attorney at a pre-trial conference to discuss why you are contesting the case. The Judge is prohibited, by Law, from discussing your case with you.

     If you choose to go to Court, you are responsible for bringing all papers, pictures, and exhibits with you to our Court hearing. You may also contact the Court for information on how to subpeona witnesses.

     You may also plead Guilty or Nolo Contendre (No Contest) and pay the fine amount. In Class "C" Misdemeanor cases, the fine ranges up to $500. A defendant may choose to work off the fine through the Sheriff’s Office work release program at a rate of $67.50 per day (minimum total fines-$135). You must request work release through this Court. It will be granted if you are approved by the Sheriff.

     Deferred Adjudication (Probation) may be granted in rare circumstances by the District Attorney, and may be requested through the Court. The fine in some circumstances is escalated in cases of probation.