What Is Class C Assault in Texas? 

Criminal defense lawyer near you advising a client about Class C assault charges in a Texas courtroom setting

What Is Class C Assault in Texas?

If you’ve been cited or arrested for Class C assault in Texas, you might be confused or even surprised. After all, how can a situation with no visible injuries still result in a criminal charge?

The truth is, Class C assault is one of the most common misdemeanor charges filed in Texas, especially in counties like Harris and Galveston. While it’s the least severe type of assault charge, it still carries serious consequences—including a permanent criminal record.

In this post, we’ll explain what Class C assault is, what penalties you could face, where your case will be heard, and why hiring a lawyer near you is still crucial.

Definition of Class C Assault in Texas

Under Texas Penal Code §22.01(a)(3), a person commits Class C assault if they:

“Intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact with another when the person knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative.”

This means you don’t have to hurt anyone to be charged. You don’t even need to threaten them with violence. Unwanted physical contact alone—if seen as offensive—can result in a criminal citation.

Examples of Class C Assault:

  • Shoving someone during an argument at a bar or party

  • Poking someone in the chest during a heated conversation

  • Spitting on another person

  • Slapping someone’s hand away

  • Lightly pushing someone to get past them in a crowd—if done aggressively

Whether or not you meant to cause harm, if the other person perceived it as offensive, law enforcement may file charges.

Penalties for Class C Assault in Texas

Class C assault is a Class C misdemeanor, the lowest level of criminal offense in Texas.

Penalty:

  • Fine of up to $500

  • No jail time

However, many people underestimate this charge. Even though there’s no risk of incarceration, a conviction still results in a criminal record—which can show up in:

  • Background checks for jobs

  • Lease and housing applications

  • College or professional licensing

  • Child custody cases

In short: it’s not “just a ticket.”

Can a Class C Assault Be Dismissed or Reduced?

Yes. In many cases, especially for first-time offenders, your attorney near you may be able to:

  • Get the charge dismissed

  • Secure deferred adjudication (no conviction if you complete certain terms)

  • Push for pre-trial diversion programs (available in some jurisdictions)

These options can help you avoid a permanent record—but you must act quickly and have legal representation that understands the local court process.

Court Jurisdiction: Where Are Class C Assault Cases Heard?

In Harris County and Galveston County, Class C misdemeanors are handled in municipal courts or justice of the peace (JP) courts, depending on where the alleged offense occurred.

Municipal Court

  • Handles cases that occur within city limits

  • Example: Assault in a Houston nightclub or Galveston beach bar

Justice of the Peace (JP) Court

  • Handles cases that occur outside city limits (unincorporated areas)

  • Example: Shoving incident in a rural part of Galveston County

While these courts don’t handle jail time, they do issue fines, enforce court dates, and enter criminal convictions that follow you for life.

Should I Hire a Lawyer for Class C Assault?

Yes—even for a Class C misdemeanor, it’s in your best interest to consult with a lawyer near you who handles criminal defense in Harris or Galveston County.

Here’s why:

  • You may be eligible for dismissal or expungement

  • Your attorney can negotiate better terms than you can alone

  • You’ll avoid making statements that harm your case

  • An experienced lawyer will know how to present your case effectively, even in a minor court setting

At the Law Office of JL Carpenter, we’ve helped countless clients get Class C assault charges dismissed before they turn into lasting consequences. With years of experience in local courts—and as a former felony prosecutor—JL knows how to handle even the most minor charges with major care.

Final Thoughts

While Class C assault may sound minor, the lasting effects of a conviction are anything but. These cases can impact your criminal record, professional future, and personal reputation—even though they carry no jail time.

Whether you’re dealing with a bar incident, a workplace disagreement, or a heated moment that got out of hand, don’t try to navigate this alone.

Call the Law Office of JL Carpenter today at (713) 201-6767 or visit https://jlcarpenterlaw.com/contact/ to speak with an experienced lawyer near you who can help protect your record and your future.