A new Texas law is imposing severe long-term consequences on individuals convicted of animal cruelty. Effective September 1, 2023, House Bill 598 prohibits anyone convicted of specific animal cruelty offenses from owning a pet or even living in a household with a pet for at least five years.
This means a conviction doesn’t just result in fines or jail time; it can strip away your right to have a beloved family companion for years. For animal lovers, this can be a devastating outcome that compounds the legal penalties. If you are facing animal cruelty charges in Collin County, understanding this new law is critical to protecting your future and your family.
A person being separated from their dog, symbolizing the pet ownership ban under the new Texas law.
A conviction for animal cruelty can now mean a mandatory five-year ban on living with any pets.
What Does the New Pet Ban Law Do?
House Bill 598 makes it illegal for a person to own or possess a pet, or to reside in a household where a pet is present, for five years following a conviction for any of the following offenses:
- Dogfighting
- Cockfighting
- Attacking an assistance animal
- Cruelty to a non-livestock animal
This law is designed to prevent repeat offenses by separating convicted individuals from potential future victims.
What Are the Penalties for Violating the Pet Ban?
The law establishes a tiered penalty system for violating the five-year ban:
- First Violation: Class C Misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.
- Subsequent Violation: Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000.
This means that after serving your sentence for animal cruelty, you could face new criminal charges simply for having a dog or cat in your home.
How a Conviction Can Tear Your Family Apart
This law has profound implications for entire families. If one person in a household is convicted, it could force the rest of the family to make an impossible choice: surrender their beloved family pet or ask the convicted individual to move out. This can create immense emotional strain and conflict, punishing innocent family members alongside the convicted person.
Fighting the Initial Animal Cruelty Charge is Your Only Defense
The most effective way to avoid this five-year ban is to avoid a conviction altogether. Animal cruelty cases can be complex, and accusations are not always what they seem. Common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: Arguing that the animal’s condition was due to accident, illness, or lack of knowledge, not intentional cruelty.
- False Allegations: These charges can sometimes stem from disputes with neighbors, former partners, or well-meaning but misinformed individuals.
- Challenging the Evidence: Questioning the methods and conclusions of the animal control officers or veterinarians involved.
Collin County Animal Cruelty Defense Attorney
At Starr Law, P.C., we understand the deep bond between people and their pets. We also know how seriously Collin County prosecutors are taking animal cruelty cases under these new laws. Our firm has the experience to aggressively defend you against these charges, fighting to protect your rights, your record, and your ability to live with your family—pets included.
Don’t risk a conviction that could separate you from your companion for five years. Your defense starts the moment you call us.
Contact Starr Law, P.C. immediately for a confidential consultation. We are ready to defend you. Call 214-982-1408.
