How is punishment categorized for obstruction or retaliation with no enhancement under Texas Penal Code?

Under the Texas Penal Code, obstruction or retaliation is categorized as a 3rd degree felony when there is no enhancement. This designation applies to individuals who retaliate against or obstruct justice by threatening or harming individuals involved in legal processes. The rationale for this categorization lies in the seriousness of the offense, as it undermines the legal system and the safety of those who participate in it, such as witnesses, jurors, and law enforcement officers.

The classification as a 3rd degree felony reflects the state's effort to maintain the integrity of the legal process and provide appropriate consequences for actions that disrupt it. Penalties for a 3rd degree felony in Texas can include severe imprisonment terms and substantial fines, emphasizing the importance of deterring such criminal behavior.