Blog Post
Legal Penalties for Fraud Convictions in Texas
3/21/2026
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