Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals and families across the United States, and Texas is no exception. What is considered domestic violence in the state of Texas?
Texas Definition of Domestic Violence
Under Texas law, domestic violence is broadly defined as any act of violence or threat of violence against a family or household member.
Family or household members include spouses, former spouses, parents, children, individuals related by blood or marriage, and those in dating relationships. Acts of domestic violence can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual assault, and economic control.
Under Texas law, domestic violence is broadly defined as any act of violence or threat of violence against a family or household member.
Family or household members include spouses, former spouses, parents, children, individuals related by blood or marriage, and those in dating relationships. Acts of domestic violence can include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual assault, and economic control.
Texas Penalties for Domestic Violence
Penalties for domestic violence offenses in Texas vary depending on the severity of the crime and any prior convictions. The state categorizes domestic violence offenses into different charges:
For each category of domestic violence, there are specific penalties in the state of Texas.
Class A Misdemeanor (Assault)
Third-Degree Felony (Aggravated Assault)
Second-Degree Felony (Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon)
Continuous Violence Against Family
Penalties can be enhanced if certain aggravating factors are present, such as causing serious bodily injury, using a deadly weapon, or having a previous conviction for domestic violence.
Penalties for domestic violence offenses in Texas vary depending on the severity of the crime and any prior convictions. The state categorizes domestic violence offenses into different charges:
- Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon
- Continuous Violence Against Family
For each category of domestic violence, there are specific penalties in the state of Texas.
Class A Misdemeanor (Assault)
- Up to one year in jail
- Fine of up to $4,000
Third-Degree Felony (Aggravated Assault)
- 2 to 10 years in prison
- Fine of up to $10,000
Second-Degree Felony (Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon)
- 2 to 20 years in prison
- Fine of up to $10,000
Continuous Violence Against Family
- Third-degree felony
- 2 to 10 years in prison
- Fine of up to $10,000
Penalties can be enhanced if certain aggravating factors are present, such as causing serious bodily injury, using a deadly weapon, or having a previous conviction for domestic violence.
Protective Orders for Domestic Violence in Texas
In addition to criminal penalties, the Texas court may issue protective orders (i.e. restraining orders) to ensure the safety of the victim. These orders may restrict the alleged abuser from contacting the victim, coming near his or her residence or workplace, and possessing firearms.
In addition to criminal penalties, the Texas court may issue protective orders (i.e. restraining orders) to ensure the safety of the victim. These orders may restrict the alleged abuser from contacting the victim, coming near his or her residence or workplace, and possessing firearms.
Texas Legal Process and Defense for Domestic Violence
The legal process for domestic violence cases in Texas typically involves arrest, arraignment, trial, and potential sentencing. This is why it is crucial for individuals facing domestic violence charges to seek legal representation.
A Texas criminal defense attorney will make sure every detail of the case is scrutinized. Common defenses for alleged domestic violence include self-defense, lack of intent, or challenging the credibility of witnesses. An attorney can firmly establish these defenses.
The legal process for domestic violence cases in Texas typically involves arrest, arraignment, trial, and potential sentencing. This is why it is crucial for individuals facing domestic violence charges to seek legal representation.
A Texas criminal defense attorney will make sure every detail of the case is scrutinized. Common defenses for alleged domestic violence include self-defense, lack of intent, or challenging the credibility of witnesses. An attorney can firmly establish these defenses.
Have You Been Charged?
Domestic violence is a very serious issue, and the Texas legal system is committed to addressing and preventing domestic violence through stringent laws and penalties.
If you have been charged with domestic violence, remember that you still have rights and that you are innocent until proven guilty. There are details about your case that even you might have missed. Call Jeff Brown, criminal defense attorney. He is your advocate with the law and will fight for you.
Domestic violence is a very serious issue, and the Texas legal system is committed to addressing and preventing domestic violence through stringent laws and penalties.
If you have been charged with domestic violence, remember that you still have rights and that you are innocent until proven guilty. There are details about your case that even you might have missed. Call Jeff Brown, criminal defense attorney. He is your advocate with the law and will fight for you.