COLLIN C JACKSON

It is illegal to knowingly fail to appear in court when you've been summoned, arrested with a court-ordered release condition, cited instead of arrested, or issued a criminal summons. Failure to appear is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months 29 days in jail and a $2,500 fine. A defense exists if you had a reasonable excuse for missing the court date.

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500

It is illegal to knowingly manufacture, deliver, sell, or possess with intent to deliver a controlled substance. This is typically a Class E felony punishable by 1 to 6 years in prison and a fine up to $3,000, but the penalty increases to a Class A, B, C, or D felony depending on the type of drug and amount involved.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

Knowingly inflicting injury on a child under 18 (through non-accidental means) is child abuse, a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months 29 days in jail and/or up to $2,500 in fines. If the abused child is 8 years old or younger, the offense is elevated to a Class D felony punishable by 2-12 years in prison. Enhanced penalties apply for child neglect or endangerment with aggravating factors.

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500