As of 2007, Travis County enacted a “cite and release” citation policy for certain offenses. One of the most common offenses leading to a cite and release citation is theft. While this policy was enacted to minimize the time law enforcement spends processing individuals on misdemeanor offenses, penalties for a citation are still severe.
Since its commencement, Hays County, and Williamson County have both adopted this policy. If you were stopped by law enforcement and given a cite and release citation, this may seem less serious than an arrest; but you still need a defense attorney to represent you at your court hearing.
Travis County Cite and Release Citation Defense Lawyer
Attorney Kevin Bennett of The Law Office of Kevin Bennett has years of experience defending clients against a series of offenses both in the courtroom and at hearings. He is prepared to defend you against the expensive fines and jail time accompanying these offenses. If you were served with a cite and release citation for theft or any other offense, you may be facing expensive fines or jail time in the near future.
Contact The Law Office of Kevin Bennett at (512) 476-4626 to get started with your free consultation. The Law Office of Kevin Bennett represents clients in Travis County, Bee Cave, Lakeway, Sunset Valley, Lago Vista, West Lake Hills, and throughout Austin.
Cite and Release Citation Information Center
- Cite and release citation defined
- Penalties for cite and release citations
- More resources on cite and release citations
Cite and Release Citation Defined
Under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure article 14.06, gives law enforcement officials in the process of charging a person or child with a Class C misdemeanor, the option of issuing a citation containing a written notice containing the following information:
- Time and place where the individual must appear before a magistrate;
- Name and address of the person charged;
- Offenses charged; and
- A bolded statement explaining that individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses involving violence against a spouse, guardian, or other intimate partner are prohibited from carrying or buying a firearm. Also, including a suggestion to seek legal counsel if necessary.
If the cited individual resides in the county where the offense took place and was stopped for a theft offense, this policy will extend to Class A and Class B misdemeanors as well.
- According to Texas Penal Code Section 31.03, a Class B misdemeanor means theft of property worth between $100 and less than $750.
- Class A misdemeanor means theft of $750 or more but less than $2500.
Penalties for Cite and Release Theft Citations
For individuals who have been issued cite and release citations, they must adhere to the date and time given on said citation. After appearing in front of a magistrate judge, the cited individual will have their mug shot and finger prints taken before they can be release from jail. Individuals who were cited or given a ticket still face all of the same penalties such as jail time, costly fines and a criminal record.
- Class A Misdemeanor: Up to a year in jail and a fine up to $4,000
- Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000
- Class C Misdemeanor: A fine up to $500
An arrest or conviction for theft can do permanent damage to a person’s record and reputation.
More Resources for Cite and Release Citations
Texas Code of Criminal Procedure– Texas Code provides a complete list of rules surrounding cite and release citations.
Austin Police Department– APD provides exceptions and guidelines to the enforcement of the cite and release citations.
The Law Office of Kevin Bennett Austin Cite and Release Theft Ticket Defense Attorney
If you fail to take these citations seriously, you might find yourself in an even worse situation. No one expects to go to jail over something as small as a citation, but it is a possibility. That is why you need the help of a criminal defense attorney like Kevin Bennett.
He has the knowledge and ability to fight your charges. Kevin Bennett can provide you with the attention you need and will treat your case as a top priority.
Call The Law Office of Kevin Bennett at (512) 476-4626 today for a free consultation. This firm accepts clients in Austin, Lakeway, Bee Caves, Pflugerville, Sunset Valley, and throughout Travis County.
