A criminal assault charge in Weatherford, Texas, means you are accused of causing bodily injury, threatening harm, or making offensive physical contact with another person. These charges can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the situation and any prior history. If convicted, you can face fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record.
At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Lawyers, we are ready to defend you against these charges. Our experienced legal team will investigate the facts, examine the evidence, and build a strong defense tailored to your case.
We’ll protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and fight for the best possible outcome. Let us stand by your side and help you through this difficult time
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Weatherford assault lawyer, please call us at (817) 877-5201 or contact us online for more information.
Facing an assault charge in Weatherford, Texas? Learn about the legal process, potential penalties, and how an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights.
Why Choose Our Weatherford Assault Attorneys?
If you are currently facing an assault charge in Weatherford, the knowledgeable lawyers at Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys are ready to advocate for you.
Our skilled attorneys have more than 100 years of combined criminal law experience and have successfully handled more than 500 criminal jury trials in the court system. Do I need a lawyer? We have also helped more than 3,000 clients achieve favorable results in their criminal cases.
Let us fight for your rights and protect your interests right away.
You can see our most recent case results and client testimonials on this site. Our Weatherford office is conveniently located at 119 N Main St #220, Weatherford, TX 76086.
Legal Elements of a Weatherford Assault Charge
In a Weatherford, Texas assault case, the prosecutor must prove several legal elements beyond a reasonable doubt in order to convict someone.
Assault in Texas is defined by law as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, threatening someone with imminent bodily injury, or causing physical contact that the victim finds offensive or provocative.
To secure a conviction, the prosecutor must show that the accused acted with the required mental state—meaning they meant to do it, were aware of their actions, or acted in a reckless way that led to harm.
The prosecutor must also prove that the accused made physical contact with the victim or threatened the victim in a way that would cause a reasonable person to fear immediate harm.
A verbal threat must place the victim in reasonable fear of imminent bodily injury to qualify as assault under Texas law.
If physical contact occurred, the state must show that it either caused pain or that a reasonable person would consider it offensive. Even if the alleged victim sustained no visible injury, the court can still find that bodily injury happened if the victim felt pain.
Another important element is identity. The prosecutor has to prove that the person on trial is the one who committed the assault.
Witness testimony, video footage, or other evidence may show this. The prosecutor must also prove jurisdiction—that the crime happened in Weatherford, Texas.
If any one of these elements is not proven, the jury must find the accused not guilty. The defense may argue that the contact was accidental, that the accused was acting in self-defense, or that the alleged victim is not telling the truth. Choose a criminal defense lawyer who can raise these arguments effectively and cast doubt in the minds of jurors, which is enough to prevent a conviction.
Assault charges are serious, and a conviction can carry heavy penalties. That’s why the legal elements must be clearly proven before someone can be found guilty.
Potential Penalties for a Weatherford Assault Conviction
If you are convicted of assault in Weatherford, Texas, the penalties you could face depend on how serious the charge is. Assault charges in Texas can range from a Class C misdemeanor to a first-degree felony, and the punishment becomes more severe as the charge increases in level.
A simple assault, such as threatening someone with bodily harm or making offensive contact, is usually a Class C misdemeanor. This type of offense is punishable by a fine of up to $500. There is no jail time for a Class C misdemeanor, but it still counts as a criminal conviction on your record.
If the assault involves causing bodily injury to another person, it is generally charged as a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties in Texas for this level of offense can include up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000. If the assault is committed against certain protected individuals, such as a family member, public servant, or emergency worker, the charge may be enhanced.
An assault involving bodily injury against a family member or dating partner can be classified as a third-degree felony if the accused has a previous conviction for family violence. A third-degree felony in Texas is punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
If the assault causes serious bodily injury or involves the use of a deadly weapon, it may be charged as a second-degree or even a first-degree felony. A second-degree felony can bring 2 to 20 years in prison, while a first-degree felony carries a sentence of 5 to 99 years or life in prison, along with a fine of up to $10,000.
The specific facts of the case, such as the victim’s injuries, the defendant’s criminal history, and whether a weapon was used, all affect the possible sentence. Courts in Weatherford take assault cases seriously, and the consequences upon conviction can be severe.
Collateral Consequences of an Assault Conviction in Weatherford
In Weatherford, Texas, a conviction for assault can bring more than just jail time or fines. Even after serving a sentence, a person may face serious collateral consequences. These are long-term effects that can impact many parts of life, often making it difficult to fully move on from a criminal conviction.
One of the most common collateral consequences is trouble finding a job. Many employers run background checks, and an assault conviction, especially a violent or felony-level offense, can make someone look like a risk. Employers may pass over applicants with criminal records, especially if the job involves working with the public, children, or sensitive information.
Housing can also become a challenge. Landlords may deny rental applications if a criminal background check reveals a violent offense. Public housing programs may also deny access to individuals with certain types of convictions, including assault.
If someone is not a U.S. citizen, an assault conviction could affect their immigration status. Depending on the type of assault and the sentence, it could lead to deportation or make it harder to gain legal status or citizenship in the future.
Gun rights may also be affected. In Texas and under federal law, people with felony assault convictions—and even some misdemeanor convictions related to domestic violence—can lose their right to own or carry firearms. This can be a serious issue for people who hunt, work in law enforcement, or simply value their right to bear arms.
Professional licenses may also be at risk. For example, nurses, teachers, and real estate agents must maintain clean records to keep their licenses. A conviction for assault could lead to suspension or even permanent loss of those licenses.
Finally, social relationships and reputation may suffer. A criminal record can damage a person’s standing in the community and cause strain in personal relationships, especially in small towns like Weatherford.
While serving time and paying fines are difficult, these collateral consequences can last much longer and affect nearly every area of life. That’s why it’s so important to understand all the risks of an assault conviction—not just the penalties handed down in court.
Defenses to an Assault Charge in Weatherford
If you are facing an assault charge in Weatherford, Texas, it’s important to understand that several legal defenses may apply to your case. The best defense will depend on the facts, but one of the strongest and most commonly used is self-defense.
Under Texas law, you are allowed to use force to protect yourself if you reasonably believe that someone is about to harm you. However, the force you use must be necessary and not excessive. For example, if someone threatens to punch you and you push them away to stop the attack, that might be considered lawful self-defense.
Another possible defense is the defense of others. If you were protecting a friend, family member, or even a stranger from being attacked, the law may allow you to use reasonable force to defend them. Like self-defense, the force must match the level of threat.
You could also raise the defense of lack of intent. Assault charges require that the accused acted intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly. If the contact was accidental or if you had no intention to hurt or threaten anyone, then you may not be guilty of assault. For instance, if someone bumps into another person in a crowded place and the person falls, that alone does not prove assault unless there was clear intent or recklessness.
In some cases, mistaken identity might be the best defense. If there is little or no physical evidence and the case relies on eyewitnesses, it may be possible to argue that you were not the person who committed the assault. Video evidence, alibis, and witness statements can support this claim.
Finally, consent could be a valid defense, especially in cases where physical contact was expected or agreed upon. For example, in certain sports or training activities, people often accept the risk of being hit or touched.
Raising a strong legal defense is key to protecting your rights and avoiding a conviction that can affect you for the rest of your life.
How We Can Handle Your Weatherford Assault Case for You
At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Lawyers, we understand how stressful and overwhelming an assault charge can be. If you’ve been accused of assault in Weatherford, Texas, our legal team is here to protect your rights, guide you through the process, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. We know what’s at stake—your freedom, your reputation, and your future—and we don’t take that lightly.
Our attorneys have years of experience handling assault cases across Parker County. We know how local prosecutors build their cases, and we know how to challenge the evidence they use.
From the moment you hire us, we’ll begin a detailed investigation. We’ll review police reports, interview witnesses, examine surveillance footage, and search for anything that can help build a strong defense.
We’ll also take time to listen to your side of the story and fully understand the facts. Whether the best defense is self-defense, mistaken identity, or lack of intent, we will develop a strategy tailored to your case. If the charges can be reduced or dismissed, we’ll push for that result. If your case goes to trial, we’ll be ready to aggressively defend you in court.
Throughout the process, we’ll keep you informed and make sure you understand your rights and options. You won’t be left wondering what’s next or facing the legal system alone. Our job is to stand by your side every step of the way.
An assault charge in Weatherford can have serious consequences, but you don’t have to face it without help. At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Lawyers, we are committed to giving our clients honest advice, strong legal support, and the experienced representation they need when it matters most. Let us fight for you.
Steps to Take if You’re Arrested for Assault in Weatherford
If you are charged with assault in Weatherford, Texas, stay calm and avoid saying anything to police officers or investigators without a lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you later, even if you’re trying to explain your side of the story.
Next, do not contact the alleged victim, witnesses, or anyone involved in the incident. Reaching out to them, even to apologize or clear up a misunderstanding, can lead to more legal trouble and may violate a court order if one is in place.
As soon as possible, contact the experienced Weatherford assault lawyers at Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys. Our legal team knows the Weatherford court system and how to defend people facing assault charges. Whether you're accused of a bar fight, resisting arrest in Texas, or a more serious felony assault, the sooner we’re involved, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and building a strong defense.
It’s also important to avoid posting anything about your case on social media. Even a small comment can be taken out of context and used against you. Focus on following our advice and attending all court dates.
An assault charge is serious, but with the right legal help, you can protect your future. At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys, we’re ready to guide you through each step of the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome. Don’t wait—get in touch with us right away.
Call an Experienced Weatherford Assault Lawyer Today
At Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Lawyers, our experienced lawyers are ready to advocate for you and pursue justice on your behalf – either through a favorable plea deal with the state prosecutor or a dismissal of your assault charge.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Weatherford assault lawyer, please call us at (817) 877-5201 or contact us online for more information.