The Texas Crimes That Only Cost You a Fine — No Jail Time

In Texas, breaking the law can lead to a variety of punishments ranging from verbal warnings to life in prison. When discussing smaller offenses ("smaller" meaning softer punishments), these usually result in nothing more than a fine.

What are Fine-Only Offenses in Texas?

Texas has three main variations of fine-only offenses: traffic offenses, Class C misdemeanors, and city ordinance violations.

Traffic Violations

The Lone Star State issues fines for traffic violations that vary with each case, but typically these violations include the following:

• Speeding
• Running a red light
• Failure to yield
• Driving with an invalid license and/or without insurance
• Expired registration

Some cops will even dismiss these offenses by letting the driver go with a warning, but if they choose to impose a fine, they cannot exceed $500.

Class-C Misdemeanors

Texas Class-C misdemeanors, aside from traffic violations, includes public intoxication, theft of property under $100 in value, possession of drug paraphernalia—not drugs themselves, verbal assault, and disorderly conduct.

Fines for these offenses also cannot exceed $500.

City Ordinance Violations

Every city in Texas has its own list of ordinances, but some general examples include leash laws, health and safety ordinances, soliciting, or panhandling.

These violations have a much higher maximum fine attached: $2,000.

Can I Go To Jail for Fine-Only Misdemeanors?

The short answer is no, as long as it's not a recurring offense or you fail to pay a fine, you should not be sentenced to jail time for fine-only violations in Texas.

To ensure you pay your tickets on time, a simple mail or online submission will wipe you clean, especially if it's your first offense.

Some exceptions to this include Class C assault-family violence and public intoxication. These will not be resolved by paying a fine. Instead, you must appear in court to enter your plea or wait until you are sober enough to meet with the judge.