Penal Code · §12.21

Class A Misdemeanor Punishment

Class A Misdemeanor Punishment is covered under §12.21 and tested on the TCOLE peace officer licensing exam. Cadets typically encounter this topic under "General Principles" on practice exams.

To prove this offense, the State must establish each of the following elements: Up to $4,000 fine; Up to 1 year county jail; Or both.

Elements you must prove

  • Up to $4,000 fine
  • Up to 1 year county jail
  • Or both

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Worked examples

Worked example 1

What is the maximum punishment for a Class A misdemeanor in Texas?

  1. $500 fine, no jail
  2. $2,000 fine and/or 180 days county jail
  3. $4,000 fine and/or 1 year county jail Correct
  4. $10,000 fine and 2 years state jail
Why: A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by a fine up to $4,000, county jail up to 1 year, or both.
Statute: Tex. Penal Code §12.21

Statutory definitions for this topic

Class A misdemeanor Tex. Penal Code §12.21
Punishable by a fine not to exceed $4,000, confinement in jail not to exceed 1 year, or both.