Austin Criminal Defense Lawyer

Texas Cockfighting Laws (as of February 2009)

Cockfighting is a popular sport in Texas, as it is in many other places in the US. Cockfighting, however, is illegal in Texas and has been so since 1907. Regardless of this fact, though, many people still partake in cockfighting secretly. If you have been charged with violating a cockfighting law, it is important to know where you stand legally.

Because cockfighting is a crime in Texas, people charged with cockfighting can expect criminal penalties. And because cockfighting is a felony crime, those penalties are rather severe. People charged with cockfighting in the state of Texas face anywhere from 180 days to 2 years in prison. In addition, they face up to $10,000 in fines.

While cockfighting itself is illegal in Texas, other acts associated with cockfighting are not illegal. Specifically, in the state of Texas it is legal to

• Have birds for the purposes of fighting
• Be a spectator at a cockfight
• Possess tools and implements that are meant to be used at a cockfight

While it may seem paradoxical that cockfighting is illegal but the other activities are not, the Texas legislature is considering making the other activities illegal as well and making the existing statutes more severe.

Contact an Austin Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with cockfighting, you will face the full brunt of the law. Professional legal representation can help mitigate the penalties. To obtain legal help, contact the Austin criminal defense lawyers of Ian Inglis by calling 512-472-1950.