A second-degree felony is a serious crime in Texas that carries a punishment range of no less than two years and no more than 20 years in the Texas Department of Corrections. It is considered a mid-range felony, with more severe offenses classified as capital felonies or first-degree felonies, and less severe offenses classified as either third-degree felonies or state jail felonies. A second-degree felony conviction can also result in a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of second-degree felonies in Texas include arson, robbery, sexual assault, bribery, and bigamy.

It is important to note that a second-degree felony conviction carries a minimum mandatory prison sentence if you’re convicted, meaning you cannot bypass a prison sentence. Additionally, if you are charged with a second-degree felony offense and previously had a felony conviction, the state will enhance the charges to a first-degree felony, which carries harsher penalties.

The penalties for a second-degree felony conviction can also include collateral consequences, such as being stripped of the right to own or even possess a firearm, losing the right to vote, and difficulty finding employment, housing, or maintaining personal relationships.