Assault cases can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. Depending on the specific allegations against you, charges can range from a Class C misdemeanor citation to a first-degree felony. You need criminal defense representation who will listen to you, work with you, and help you through the difficult process of facing a criminal assault charge.

For help from an Austin assault and domestic violence attorney, contact us online or via phone at (512) 991-0576.

What is an Assault or Domestic Violence Charge?

Domestic violence is defined as the use of force or abuse in any domestic situation. Abuse includes physical abuse (hitting, biting, slapping), sexual abuse, emotional abuse (invalidating sense of self-worth), and economic abuse (forcing the victim to feel financial reliance).

An assault or domestic violence charge has three main elements that prosecutors must be able to prove:

• Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person;

• Intentionally or knowingly threatening another person with imminent bodily injury; OR

• Intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another that the offender knows OR reasonably should know the victim

will find provocative or offensive.

It is important to note that Austin pursues a no-drop policy. This means that even if the victim of the domestic violence chooses not to press charges, Austin prosecutors will still pursue the case. However, a strategic defense can work to convince prosecutors to drop the case or ensure the minimum penalty.

What Is the Penalty for Assault in Austin? 

The penalty for an assault or domestic violence charge depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of the abuse, the relationship of the victim and defendant, defendant's past convictions of domestic violence, and whether strangulation was involved. These factors can result in a charge ranging from a class C misdemeanor to a first-degree felony, with the latter punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and/or 5 to 99 years in prison.

An assault or domestic violence charge can have severely damaging consequences. An experienced Austin assault and domestic violence attorney can work with you to ensure that you have a formidable defense.

Contact us online or via phone at (512) 991-0576 to schedule a consultation with our team.