Assault Family Violence Defense Attorneys in Temple
Aggressive Legal Defense for Assault Family Violence Charges in Texas
If you or someone you know has been charged with assault family violence in Temple, it can be an overwhelming and potentially confusing situation. It’s important to educate yourself on the laws surrounding these charges, so that you understand your rights and the key actions you should take if you’re faced with an assault family violence charge in Temple.
Fighting for justice is never easy, especially when it comes to criminal charges. But at Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we are dedicated to being your champions in times of need. Whether you're facing assault family violence charges or other criminal allegations, our focus is always on protecting your rights and interests. Our top priority is our clients, and we'll do everything in our power to defend you with unwavering commitment. With us, you can have confidence that you're in the hands of a team that understands what's at stake and is ready to fight for you.
For more information about Texas’ assault family violence laws, or to discuss your situation with our experienced assault family violence defense lawyers in Temple, TX, give us a call at (512) 359-3743 or contact us online today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7.
Our Approach to Defending Assault Family Violence Charges
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we understand the gravity of assault family violence charges and the impact they can have on your life. Our approach to defending these charges includes:
- Thorough Investigation: We conduct a comprehensive investigation of the allegations, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing police reports to build a strong defense.
- Challenging Evidence: We scrutinize the prosecution's evidence, looking for inconsistencies, procedural errors, and violations of your rights.
- Expert Testimony: When necessary, we work with experts to challenge the credibility of the evidence and provide alternative explanations for the events in question.
- Negotiation and Trial: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and trial lawyers. We aim to resolve cases favorably through plea negotiations but are always prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.
What Is Assault Family Violence?
In Texas, family violence is when a family member or household member acts in a way that intends to harm another family or household member physically or put them in fear of imminent harm. However, reasonable discipline of a child is not considered abuse. Abuse is defined as physical injury that results in a genuine threat or significant harm, sexual contact, sexual conduct, sexual intercourse, or encouraging a child to engage in sexual conduct.
Definition of Family & Household Members
The term 'family' in family violence cases includes:
- Blood relatives
- Relatives by marriage or former marriage
- Foster parents and foster children
- Roommates
- Anyone who has lived in the same household
Family violence can occur in any household, not just those related by blood.
Penalties for an Assault Family Violence Conviction in Temple
Being charged with assault family violence in Temple can have serious consequences. A conviction may lead to a range of punishments, including:
- Domestic Assault: For a Class C misdemeanor, a conviction can result in a $500 fine. If the incident is categorized as a Class A misdemeanor, a conviction can lead to a $4,000 fine and up to a year in jail. For a third-degree felony, a conviction can result in a $10,000 fine and up to 10 years in prison.
- Aggravated Domestic Assault: If the incident is categorized as a second-degree felony, a conviction can lead to up to $10,000 in fines and up to 20 years in prison. If it is categorized as a first-degree felony, a conviction can result in life in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
- Continuous Family Violence: This is considered a third-degree felony and can result in up to $10,000 in fines and up to 10 years in prison.
Beyond legal penalties, a conviction for assault family violence can lead to significant collateral consequences, such as:
- Difficulty obtaining employment
- Challenges in securing housing
- Loss of professional licenses
- Restrictions on firearm ownership
Defenses for Assault Family Violence Charges in Temple
In Texas, individuals accused of assault family violence have the right to mount a defense against the charges filed against them. Common defenses include:
- Lack of intent to harm
- Self-defense
- False allegations
- Police misconduct
How Can a Defense Attorney Help in an Assault Family Violence Case?
A defense attorney can play a crucial role in an assault family violence case by providing strategic legal support tailored to the specific circumstances of the case. From the moment they are engaged, their primary objective is to ensure that the accused's rights are protected and to advocate for the best possible outcome.
One of the first ways a defense attorney helps is by meticulously examining the evidence. They analyze police reports, witness statements, and any other pertinent documentation to identify inconsistencies or weaknesses in the prosecution's case. This scrutiny can reveal gaps that might undermine the credibility of the charges or suggest alternative explanations for the alleged incident.
A defense attorney also provides critical advice on legal strategy and potential outcomes. They will guide their client through the complexities of the legal system, explaining potential defenses such as self-defense or lack of intent, and advising on whether to accept a plea deal or proceed to trial. Their expertise ensures that clients make informed decisions that align with their best interests.
Furthermore, a defense attorney works to mitigate the consequences if a conviction seems likely. They advocate for reduced charges or lesser sentences, and if applicable, they can negotiate for alternative sentencing options such as counseling or community service.
In essence, a defense attorney is dedicated to safeguarding their client’s rights, challenging the prosecution's case, and striving for a favorable resolution in an assault family violence case.
Contact Our Temple Assault Family Violence Defense Lawyers for a Free Consultation Today
If you've been charged with assault family violence in Temple, it is important to take the charge seriously and seek help right away. The first step is to contact an experienced lawyer who can advise and represent you in court.
As our case results and clients’ reviews prove, Smith & Vinson Law Firm has the experience and proven track record necessary to help people facing assault family violence charges, or any other type of criminal allegations, secure the most favorable outcome possible for their situation. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Temple, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. When it comes to criminal charges, time is always of the essence.
Call us at (512) 359-3743 or reach out to us online today to schedule a free consultation with our dedicated criminal defense attorneys in Temple, TX.
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
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Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
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What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
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When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
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After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
911 caller reported a major rollover, single car accident. EMS and fire arrived on scene. They had to break the window to get our client out of the car. He said he had swerved to miss a deer and had been up close to 18 hours before the crash. Police later arrived on scene, spoke to our client and he admitted to coming from a bar and drinking 2 martinis.
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Not Guilty 2nd DWI
Our client was pulled over for a traffic violation. Officer smelled alcohol, client admitted to consuming a few drinks. Officer also noted slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. Client performed the SFST’s (roadside tests). Officer said he failed all 3, eye test, walk and turn and one-leg stand. Officer placed client under arrest and asked him for a sample of breath and/or blood. Client refused. Officer did not get a blood warrant.
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Case Dismissed 2nd DWI
Our client was involved in a vehicle accident in La Grange where she was ejected from the vehicle and had to stay in the hospital. There was alcohol in the car, and she had prior DWIs. The ethanol levels in her blood came back at a .13 so she was charged with Driving While Intoxicated. This client was unaware that she was charged after she left the hospital which resulted in the charge of Bail Jumping. However she maintained that she had only an 8% functioning liver due and upon researching her medical hist
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault & Tampering with Evidence
Our client was involved in a verbal dispute that turned into an altercation where a firearm was discharged into the ground. The round ricocheted and grazed a party to the dispute. Our client was facing multiple felony convictions and a prison sentence.
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Deferred Adjudication Aggravated Assault Family Violence w/ Serious Bodily Injury
Our client was involved in a domestic altercation that resulted in one of the parties sustaining a very serious life -altering injury that required serious medical intervention. We took the case and approached our defense with heavy strong willed negotiations with the State.
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Rejected Pre-Indictment Aggravated Assault Strangulation/Impeding Airway Investigation