Every year foreign and domestic travelers to the DFW Metroplex spend billions of dollars visiting and vacationing in the area; and, with so much to do, it’s no wonder.
The unique culture and opportunities in Texas are what have given this state the reputation for being like a whole other country.
Unfortunately, what many visitors forget is that we also have a unique – and often harsh – legal culture, resulting in many tourist arrests.
Navigating the legal systems can be stressful and time-consuming, though, so contact an experienced Dallas criminal defense attorney today to help take care of your case.
The team at McConathy Law has over three decades of experience in Texas criminal defense law. If you are an out-of-state visitor who has been arrested for a criminal offense in Dallas, contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today at (972) 233-5700 for a consultation about your alleged offense
Out-of-State Visitor Arrest Defense Lawyer in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, TX
Common Out-of-State Visitor Offenses in Dallas
Most out-of-state visitor offenses in Dallas are entertainment-related. It is important to remember, especially when traveling domestically, that every state has different laws regarding different issues and you are expected to abide by the laws in the jurisdiction you’re visiting. The following are common offenses committed by out-of-state visitors in Dallas:
- Public Intoxication – A person can be arrested for PI in Texas when intoxicated in a public place to a degree that he or she is a danger to him/herself or others. This includes establishments that have alcohol licensing.
- Driving While Intoxicated – Known as DUI in other states, a person commits this offense when operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, narcotics, marijuana, or prescription drugs. Texas is particularly harsh about cracking down on these cases – so if you’re drinking stay under the legal limit of .08 or use another mode of transportation.
- Possession of Marijuana – Texas does not allow marijuana for medical or recreational purposes. If you are knowingly and intentionally in possession of 2 ounces or less of marijuana, you can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor. Charges for more than 2 ounces can go all the way up to a First-Degree Felony depending on the amount.
- Possession of a Controlled Substance – A controlled substance in Texas includes prescription medications and narcotics such as cocaine, heroin, and LSD. If you carry your medications in a different container than the pharmacy issued, make sure you have a copy of your prescription on hand.
- Disorderly Conduct – Known in other jurisdictions as reckless conduct or disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct covers everything from profane verbal and body language to threats, to fights. Additionally, someone who discharges a gun in celebration of a holiday can be arrested for disorderly conduct.
- Shoplifting – This is an instance when a person takes another person’s property without his or her effective consent, including failure to pay. Depending on the value of the goods stolen you could be facing anywhere from a Class C Misdemeanor to a State Jail Felony or harsher. Many of these offenses don’t have to take place if the alleged offender would double-check their person and shopping bags before leaving the store.
The Texas Criminal Justice System: What You Need to Know
When facing criminal charges in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, understanding the severity of potential consequences and your legal options becomes paramount to protecting your future.
At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we’ve defended over 6,000 criminal cases with a proven track record that speaks to our commitment to fighting for our clients’ rights.
Texas operates under a structured penalty system where consequences increase significantly based on the classification of your charges. Understanding these classifications helps you grasp the stakes involved in your case.
Texas Criminal Offense Classifications and Penalties
| Offense Class | Maximum Fine | Maximum Jail/Prison Time | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class C Misdemeanor | $500 | None | Criminal record, employment issues |
| Class B Misdemeanor | $2,000 | 180 days | Criminal record, driving restrictions |
| Class A Misdemeanor | $4,000 | 1 year | Criminal record, professional license issues |
| State Jail Felony | $10,000 | 2 years | Felony record, voting restrictions |
| Third-Degree Felony | $10,000 | 10 years | Long-term incarceration, lifetime consequences |
| Second-Degree Felony | $10,000 | 20 years | Severe prison time, permanent record |
| First-Degree Felony | $10,000 | 99 years | Life-altering sentences |
| Capital Felony | None | Life/Death | Life imprisonment or death penalty |
⚠️ Important Note: These represent maximum penalties. Actual sentences depend on numerous factors including criminal history, case circumstances, district, and quality of legal representation.
Find A Dallas County Defense Attorney for Out-of-State Offender Attorney | Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy
There are many benefits to individual states’ rights. However, one of the downsides is you may be in violation of a law you were unaware of and get arrested while traveling. If you are an out-of-state or international guest and have been charged with a criminal offense in Dallas County trust your case to an experienced Texas firm that knows the local standard of law.
Contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today at (972) 233-5700 for a consultation about your alleged offense in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, and surrounding areas of Dallas County, Texas. Our firm will work to potentially get your criminal charges reduced or dismissed.