These Classroom Crimes Could Lead to Court Summons in Texas

Did you know that students can be subject to misdemeanor charges while at school, and that these charges can even lead to a court summons? Let's go through the types of classroom crimes that can land both the child and their parents in hot water.

Common Classroom Crimes

In Texas, the most common crimes committed by students include disorderly conduct and simple assault, according to Texas Law Help.

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Behavior that negatively impacts nearby civilians in a public space can be described as disorderly conduct. Common examples of this charge include the following:

• Using vulgar language or offensive gestures
• Fighting with or threatening another person
• Showing a firearm with intent to alarm or threaten someone
• Public exposure
• Looking into private areas such as bathrooms
• Shouting or making an unreasonable amount of noise in a public space

Read More: Uncover What Makes a Texas Crime 'Aggravated'

There are some defenses to disorderly conduct on school campuses, however. For example, if the student was under the age of 12 when the act took place, or they did not intend to disturb nor were they aware that the action would cause a disruption on public property.

Simple Assault, Simply Put

Assault doesn't always mean a physical interaction. Threats of bodily injury also fall under the charge of simple assault. Of course, this also includes making physical contact with someone for the sole purpose of inflicting harm.

I get it: fights during school happen all over the nation. They either get resolved afterwards or they're put to an end by teachers or principals, placing all students involved in detention and—in extreme cases—suspension.

Some instances of fighting can escalate to simple assault depending on the parties involved, their parents, and the school administration.

Other cases of assault could be the result of students attacking teachers or other school personnel in and around class periods.

Don't Ignore These Charges!

When underage students on a Texas school campus are charged with either disorderly conduct or simple assault, they are often summoned to court. This is in addition to the potential fine their parents must pay, along with any court costs.

It's important that parents answer any court summons on the date and time provided. Failure to do so can result in additional charges towards the student and/or parent.