What An Offense Level Means
Penal Code 12.21 — from a Class C fine to life for a first degree felony
| Level | Punishment |
|---|---|
| LevelClass C misdemeanor | PunishmentFine up to $500 |
| LevelClass B misdemeanor | PunishmentFine up to $2,000, up to 180 days in jail, or both |
| LevelClass A misdemeanor | PunishmentFine up to $4,000, up to one year in jail, or both |
| LevelState jail felony | Punishment180 days to two years in a state jail, and a fine up to $10,000 |
| LevelThird degree felony | Punishment2 to 10 years, and a fine up to $10,000 |
| LevelSecond degree felony | Punishment2 to 20 years, and a fine up to $10,000 |
| LevelFirst degree felony | Punishment5 to 99 years or life, and a fine up to $10,000 |
A state jail felony is punished as a third degree felony when a deadly weapon was used or exhibited in it, or when the person has certain prior felony convictions the section names. The fines for felonies are in addition to imprisonment, and may be imposed or not.
Sources for this section (7)
- Penal Code 12.21 — Class A misdemeanor
- Penal Code 12.22 — Class B misdemeanor
- Penal Code 12.23 — Class C misdemeanor
- Penal Code 12.32 — First degree felony punishment
- Penal Code 12.33 — Second degree felony punishment
- Penal Code 12.34 — Third degree felony punishment
- Penal Code 12.35 — State jail felony punishment
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Texas attorney.