Domestic violence in Texas can lead to jail sentences, restraining orders and other penalties under the criminal code. If you are facing Texas criminal domestic violence charges, you need to get the assistance of an attorney who can help you handle your case.
Texas Law and Domestic Violence
If you are facing charges due to a domestic violence incident, the actual charges will depend on what happened during the incident. Some of the most common domestic violence charges include:
- Assault. A person commits an assault if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another, including the person's spouse; intentionally or knowingly threatens another with imminent bodily injury, including the person's spouse; or intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with another when the person knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative. Assault on a family member can result in a third degree felony conviction. Due to the seriousness of felony charges and convictions, it is important to know your rights and handle your case with care.
- Offenses against the family. Offenses against the family under Texas penal code can include bigamy; prohibited sexual conduct; interference with child custody; child enticement; criminal non-support; harboring a runaway child; violation of certain court orders or bonds in a family violence case; violation of a protective order; and interference with the rights of a guardian.
- Violation of a protective order. A person commits this offense if, in violation of an order, the person knowingly or intentionally commits family violence or an act in furtherance of an offense, including if the person communicates directly with a protected individual or a member of the family or household in a threatening or harassing manner; a threat through any person to a protected individual or a member of the family or household; and in any manner with the protected individual or a member of the family or household except through the person's attorney or a person appointed by the court, if the order prohibits any communication with a protected individual or a member of the family or household; or goes to or near any of the following places as specifically described in the order such as residence or place of employment or business of a protected individual or a member of the family or household; or any child care facility, residence, or school where a child protected by the order normally resides or attends.
Get Legal Help
An attorney familiar with criminal law and procedure in Texas can help you handle your domestic violence case. Domestic violence cases often carry with them emotional challenges and other difficulties not associated with other types of criminal cases. It is important to have an knowledgeable attorney handle your case so that your rights will be protected.
