Asked 2/9/2016 – San Marcos, TX

I understand its a class C misdemeanor and it is a max of $500. however when I went to the court and before I asked if it could be deferred, the fee alone was only $250. I have a clean record and really don’t want this to ruin my chances of getting a good career after I graduate college. I had an attorney review my case and he told me that it was going to cost me 500 + court cost. but I told him that they only tried to charge me $250 at the window and he seemed to just ignore it. he claimed that I would pay about the same if i hired him. $250 for him and $250 for the citation. I feel like he just wants some quick cash…

Answer

The deferred adjudication fee for any case is whatever the Judge says it will be. The granting of deferred adjudication is totally discretionary, and the Judge can set the fee anywhere within the punishment range provided by law. With respect to the attorney you met with, remember, you are hiring him or her. If you don’t feel comfortable with that attorney, find another attorney. If you feel comfortable in handling this matter on your own, good luck.