Category: Domestic Violence

Did You Know That Dating Violence Is Domestic Violence in Texas?

Domestic Violence

All couples fight, and arguments frequently get heated. However, when an argument becomes physical, this crosses the line into domestic violence.

While the stereotypical domestic violence situation involves spouses or partners who live together, violence in any romantic relationship, including someone you’re just dating, is considered to be domestic violence.

In fact, dating violence is on the rise in Texas and nationwide, which has caught the attention of law enforcement. Therefore, any and all dating violence allegations are taken very seriously and can result in serious criminal and civil consequences.

We’ve put together a guide covering how Texas defines domestic violence, particularly as it relates to dating violence, and the penalties you could face if you’re accused or convicted.

Texas

Texas Domestic Violence Charges – There Are Ways to Fight Back

Domestic Violence | Family Violence

Despite the toughest round of Texas Domestic Violence reform yet, the courts understand the nature of these cases is usually complex. Judges maintain wide discretion when evaluating domestic violence charges, and often consider the impact their decisions can have upon the entire family unit.

An experienced Fort Worth domestic violence defense attorney can review your case, provide a clear understanding of your options, and develop a sound defense against the charges you face. In today’s post, we’re going to share some of the most common approaches we take when helping our clients fight back.

I Didn’t Commit Domestic Violence

There are really only two scenarios in which telling the court “I didn’t do it” can be a valid defense: either [...]

What You Should Know about Felony Domestic Violence in Texas

Domestic Violence

In the past, many domestic violence charges could be – and often were – dropped altogether. That changed with the latest round of Texas criminal justice reforms, which automatically charge repeat domestic violence offenders with a felony, making it more important than ever to fight back.

Today’s post provides the basics about domestic violence, what penalties convictions carry, and how the courts currently view these cases.

If you are facing domestic violence charges, and need help negotiating reduced charges and getting back on the right track, an experienced Texas family violence attorney can help.

CRIME AND PUNISHMENT

Texas recognizes three different crimes of domestic violence: domestic assault, aggravated domestic assault, and continuous violence against the family. These charges may [...]

Will You Lose Your Kids If Convicted of Domestic Violence in Texas?

Domestic Violence | Family Violence

A Texas family court will consider several facts when deciding which parent gets primary child custody. Domestic violence, no surprise, is one of the factors that will have a significant negative effect on a person’s eligibility to care for their for their children.

In its less severe form, a history of domestic violence can lead to limited visitation rights. More extreme cases, however, can even result in an automatic loss of parental rights.

This post will cover how Texas defines domestic violence and what you can expect if you are charged and want to retain custody of your kids.

Defining Domestic Violence Under Texas Law

Per The Texas Penal Code Title 5 Chapter 22 section 22.01, domestic violence is [...]

Strategies That Can Help You Fight Family Violence Charges in Texas

Domestic Violence | Family Violence

Upon hearing the term “domestic violence,” most of probably imagine things we’ve seen in TV shows or movies. Usually couples where one is abusing the other. However, Texas domestic violence laws apply to more than just romantic couples.

According to the Texas Penal Code (Title 5, Chapter 22, Section 22.01), domestic violence is the use of force against a family member, household member, or a current or past dating partner that causes or threatens to cause bodily injury or other physical contact regarded as offensive or provocative.

The point? Every case is nuanced, for the best chance at a positive outcome, you need a competent criminal defense attorney experienced in domestic violence. They will be able to [...]

Can an Alleged Victim Drop Domestic Violence Charges in Texas?

Domestic Violence

In the heat of the moment, we can all say and do things that we regret. Domestic violence situations often involve these regrettable actions.

So do false domestic violence accusations.

There are a handful of reasons why an alleged victim would report domestic violence, but before they know it, they are faced with testifying in court and seeing their partner face jail time, custody loss, or other penalties.

The whole case would be dropped if the victim just took back their accusation, right?

Not so fast. Even if the alleged victim was the sole witness to the alleged domestic violence, they alone cannot drop charges. Alleged victims can, however, have a big impact on the outcome of a case.[...]