Dallas Domestic Violence Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges in Texas

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects many families and households in Texas. It is a serious crime with severe legal consequences and long-lasting emotional and physical damage. If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence charges, seeking legal guidance from an experienced attorney is crucial. At Aulbaugh Law, skilled Dallas domestic violence lawyer James Aulbaugh understands what is at stake with an assault conviction in Texas. He provides clients with an honest assessment of their case, thoroughly explaining each option so each client can make an informed decision as to moving forward.

In Dallas, having the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. A criminal conviction can lead to fines, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record, affecting employment opportunities and personal relationships. Utilizing our extensive experience, we aim to mitigate these consequences and guide you to a resolution that considers your future.

Are you facing a domestic violence charge in Texas? Call Aulbaugh Law today at (214) 380-3383 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our domestic violence attorney in Dallas!

What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Texas? 

In Texas, domestic violence is a serious offense that can result in criminal charges and severe penalties. Domestic violence is defined as any act that causes bodily injury, threatens to cause bodily injury, or causes any physical contact that a reasonable person would find offensive or provocative against a family member, household member, or romantic partner.

Under Texas law, family members include spouses, former spouses, parents, children, foster children, and members of the same household. Household members can consist of people who live or have previously lived together, including roommates and people in a dating relationship.

Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical violence, emotional abuse, sexual assault, and economic abuse. Examples of domestic violence may include:

• Physical violence, such as hitting, slapping, punching, kicking, or strangling
• Threats of violence or intimidation, including the use of weapons
• Sexual assault or sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse, such as constant criticism, humiliation, or verbal attacks
• Economic abuse, such as controlling a partner's finances or withholding money or resources
• Stalking or harassment

Texas Penal Code defines an assault offense as:

• Causing bodily injury – Class A Misdemeanor
• Threatening to cause bodily injury – Class C Misdemeanor
• Physically contacting someone in a way they would consider provocative or offensive – Class C Misdemeanor

For these actions to be considered criminal, they must have been committed intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly. It is crucial to understand your rights and the specific legal definitions, as these can vary slightly by jurisdiction within Texas. Clarifying these aspects early in your defense can substantially impact the strategies we develop for your case.

Family Violence Charges in Texas

Assault family violence charges arise when an alleged victim claims that a member of their family or household caused them injury in some way. Depending on the level of offense charged, the harm can either be physical or emotional, ranging from contact with or threats against the alleged victim.

In Texas, family or household members include:

• Two people related by blood or marriage
• Two people who are spouses or former spouses
• Two people who share a child together
• Foster children and foster parents
• Roommates
• People who are currently or were formerly in a dating relationship

Understanding the dynamics of family violence charges is essential, as the legal distinctions can influence both the defense strategy and the potential penalties you may face. At Aulbaugh Law, we take into account the unique circumstances of each client's situation and collaborate closely to craft a defense that addresses the charges comprehensively.

Dallas courts handle domestic violence cases with a strong emphasis on protecting victims while ensuring a fair legal process for the accused. The intricacies of the local legal system demand a strategic defense approach, leveraging our knowledge of the Dallas County procedures and typical judicial tendencies. Engaging with seasoned legal professionals familiar with the local judicial environment can offer a distinct advantage in navigating these serious charges.

Start your defense with our domestic violence lawyer in Dallas!

Understanding Domestic Violence Penalties in Texas

In Texas, the penalties for domestic violence vary depending on the severity of the offense and whether the accused has any prior convictions. Domestic violence can be charged as a Class C misdemeanor, a Class A misdemeanor, or a third-degree felony.

• Class C misdemeanor: This is the least severe offense and can result in a fine of up to $500. Examples of Class C misdemeanor domestic violence offenses may include minor physical altercations or threats of violence.
• Class A misdemeanor: This can result in a year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Examples of Class A misdemeanor domestic violence offenses may include assaults that result in minor injuries or weapon use.
• Third-degree felony: This is the most severe domestic violence offense and can result in a prison sentence of 2-10 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of third-degree felony domestic violence offenses may include serious bodily injury, the use of a deadly weapon, or a repeated offense.

In addition to the criminal penalties, a domestic violence conviction can have long-lasting consequences, including losing certain rights and difficulty finding employment or housing. If you are facing domestic violence charges, seeking legal representation from an experienced attorney who can help protect your rights and defend your interests in court is essential.

Penalties for domestic violence can also include mandatory counseling programs, community service, and restraining orders. Such legal requirements can disrupt your daily life and create complications in personal and professional relationships. Therefore, it is critical to have a comprehensive understanding of these potential penalties so that you are prepared for any court decisions. Consulting with our knowledgeable team ensures that you have access to strategies designed to mitigate these penalties effectively.