R. Todd Bennett, P.C. Board Certified, Criminal Law. Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
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Consequences Of Family Violence Charges

I’m R. Todd Bennett, a Houston board-certified* criminal defense lawyer. If you have been charged with domestic violence assault or family violence assault — serious charges that carry severe consequences for conviction — you should find a good criminal lawyer as soon as possible. I represent people throughout the Houston area who face this very serious accusation, and I have helped many clients keep allegations of assault and family violence from ruining their lives.

After reading the information about family violence charges below, feel free to contact me to arrange a free initial consultation and have your questions answered by an experienced defense attorney.

Consequences Of A Family Violence Arrest In Texas

If you have been arrested on suspicion of family violence:

  • You may be subject to a no-contact or restraining order that bars you from going home or even speaking to your spouse.
  • For a first offense, class A misdemeanor, the punishment range goes up to one year in county jail.
  • For a second offense, you will be charged with a felony, punishable by up to a term of years in Texas state prison.

If you are convicted, you will have a lifelong criminal record that will make it more difficult for you to get a job, find housing, own a firearm and go about many other aspects of your life.

Is Family Violence Assault/Domestic Violence Assault A Felony Or A Misdemeanor?

Generally speaking, an allegation of family violence will not impact the criminal classification of the underlying assault or aggravated assault charge. That is, if the charge alleges bodily injury, the charge will be a misdemeanor. If the charge alleges serious bodily injury or use of a deadly weapon, the charge will be a felony. For more information, view my Assault page.

Other Factors That Can Lead To Felony Charges

However, if the defendant has a prior conviction for family violence, an assault that would normally be a misdemeanor will be enhanced to a felony charge.

In addition, an allegation of assault by causing bodily injury to a family member where the manner and means of the bodily injury is by “choking” the complainant, the assault charge will be a felony assault charge.

Contact R. Todd Bennett

Call 713-489-7763 or reach out to me online to set up a free consultation and get the answers you deserve about the consequences of family violence charges and how to respond to the arrest and allegations.

*R. Todd Bennett is board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization