Collin County Assault & Family Violence Lawyers

Fighting for the Accused for Over a Decade

Any assault is considered a crime of violence in Texas. Assault can be committed against others resulting in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances of the case. However, it carries the most severe penalties when committed against certain individuals, such as family or household members (known as family violence), or when committed against certain public servants, such as government employees, firefighters, EMTs, judges, or law enforcement.

If you are facing an assault charge of any kind, you should immediately bring in an experienced criminal defense lawyer in your area. You will want a professional who understands the consequences, the law, the local court system, and how to devise defense strategies that seek the best possible result, whether through negotiations with the prosecutor or a trial. At McDaniel Law Group, we have been representing Texans in assault charges for over a decade and understand the degree of thoroughness and care needed for optimum results. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights while giving you the aggressive defense you deserve.

Connect with McDaniel Law Group via online message or at (469) 960-4067 to book your free Zoom or phone consultation with a Collin County assault and family violence attorney.

Simple Assault vs. Aggravated Assault in Texas

Assault can be charged as simple assault or aggravated assault, depending on the circumstances. Any assault, however, is defined as threatening to cause or actually causing bodily injury or making physical contact with the alleged victim that is offensive or provocative. These actions must be done “intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly.” 

It is important to note that per the legal definition of assault, you can be charged with this offense without having made any physical contact with the alleged victim. Threats of doing so, such as raising your fists without striking, can be viewed as assault. Furthermore, offensive or provocative contact could include poking, grabbing someone in a sexual manner, or other actions. 

You can be charged with simple assault when a bodily injury is minor such as a cut or bruise. You can be charged with aggravated assault when the injury is more severe and requires medical attention, such as for broken bones or internal damage. 

Penalties for Assault in Texas

How you are penalized will depend on whether you are charged with a Class C, Class B, Class A misdemeanor or a felony charge as well as whether you have prior convictions.

These penalties can include:

• Class C: a fine of up to $500
• Class B: a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail
• Class A: a fine of up to $4,000 and/or up to a year in jail
• Potential restitution to victims
• Probation

Felony penalties when an assault is committed against public servants, police officers, etc., or in cases of repeated family violence can result in fines of up to $10,000 and two up to 20 years in prison. 

Family Violence Assault

When 911 is called for domestic assault and police show up at the scene, they will generally arrest someone for this offense. Charges brought against you in these cases are in the hands of the prosecutor, who is the only discretionary source for pursuing those charges, regardless of whether the alleged victim wishes not to press charges.

These charges apply when a family or household member or dating/romantic partner is threatened with harm or is actually harmed. Aggravated charges can include assault with a deadly weapon or assault that causes “serious” bodily injury. Other assault charges include stalking, unlawful restraint, continuous family violence, kidnapping, and homicide. 

Depending on the circumstances, family violence charges can be misdemeanors or felonies. Penalties for these charges are mentioned above. Additionally, domestic violence cases can result in protective orders that may direct the offender to vacate the shared home, prohibit any further acts of harm as well as prohibit the possession of firearms, order the offender to make no further contact with the alleged victim, and restrict the offender in other ways. Violations of these orders constitute a new criminal offense. 

Contact McDaniel Law Group for Strong Legal Representation

Assault and domestic assault are serious matters for which you will need the services of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney. At our firm, we represent those charged with assaults of all kinds, including domestic violence.  Furthermore, we provide mental health resources for defendants who need support and assistance. 

You can reach us via our website or at (469) 960-4067 to arrange for a free phone or Zoom case evaluation.