Texas uses a value-based system to determine punishment. Generally, the higher the financial loss, the more severe the penalty.

Misdemeanor Fraud Penalties

Class C Misdemeanor (Under $100)

Fine up to $500

No jail time

Class B Misdemeanor ($100–$750)

Up to 180 days in jail

Fine up to $2,000

Class A Misdemeanor ($750–$2,500)

Up to 1 year in jail

Fine up to $4,000

Even misdemeanor convictions can create lasting consequences, including a permanent criminal record.

Felony Fraud Penalties

State Jail Felony ($2,500–$30,000)

180 days to 2 years in state jail

Fine up to $10,000

Third-Degree Felony ($30,000–$150,000)

2 to 10 years in prison

Fine up to $10,000

Second-Degree Felony ($150,000–$300,000)

2 to 20 years in prison

Fine up to $10,000

First-Degree Felony (Over $300,000)

5 to 99 years or life in prison

Fine up to $10,000

Additional enhancements may apply if the alleged victim is elderly, disabled, or a nonprofit organization.

Beyond Criminal Penalties

Fraud convictions can also result in:

Restitution payments

Asset forfeiture

Professional license suspension

Immigration consequences

Long-term damage to reputation and employment prospects

Because fraud charges hinge heavily on intent, many defenses focus on demonstrating:

Lack of fraudulent intent

Mistaken accounting or clerical errors

Misunderstandings in contractual disputes

Insufficient or improperly obtained evidence

The Bottom Line

Fraud charges in Texas are serious—but highly fact-specific. The prosecution must prove intentional deception beyond a reasonable doubt. A carefully constructed defense can challenge intent, evidence handling, and the valuation of alleged losses.

Early legal intervention is critical. The sooner a defense strategy is developed, the better positioned you are to reduce charges, negotiate alternatives, or pursue dismissal.

Arlington Criminal Attorneys

3901 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 200

Arlington, TX 76018

(817) 767-0661

https://www.CriminalAttorneysArlingtonTX.com/