Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | July 31, 2025 | Domestic Violence
Being accused of domestic violence in Fort Worth, Texas, is a serious matter that can significantly impact your future freedom. Texas law defines domestic violence broadly, covering several types of behavior within relationships and households.
Knowing exactly what qualifies as domestic violence can help you understand the charges you’re facing and how best to respond.
What Is Domestic Violence Under Texas Law?
In Texas, domestic violence (officially known as “family violence”) is defined under Section 71.004 of the Texas Family Code. It covers any act by one family or household member against another intended to cause physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or a threat causing fear of immediate harm.
Texas law recognizes domestic violence between:
- Current or former spouses
- Individuals who have or have had a dating relationship
- Parents and children, including foster relationships
- Individuals related by blood or marriage
- Members of the same household, even if unrelated
Charges under any of these circumstances can lead to serious penalties.
Different Forms of Domestic Violence in Fort Worth
Domestic violence can take several forms under Texas law, each carrying unique legal consequences. The primary categories include:
Physical Abuse
Physical abuse involves acts intended to cause physical harm or injury, such as hitting, pushing, choking, or any other form of physical assault.
Threats of Violence
Threats that reasonably place someone in fear of imminent physical harm also constitute domestic violence. This includes verbal threats or intimidating actions, even if no physical contact occurs.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse
Although emotional and psychological abuse alone doesn’t typically result in criminal charges, these behaviors may strengthen domestic violence allegations when paired with other abusive actions.
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Fort Worth
Texas takes domestic violence charges seriously, and the penalties depend on the specifics of the case, such as the severity of injuries or prior offenses.
Potential punishments can include:
- Jail or prison time
- Probation and mandatory counseling
- Loss of firearm rights
- Protective or restraining orders limiting contact with victims or family members
- Significant fines and court costs
There could also be severe collateral consequences that go beyond the penalties the court imposes, such as difficulty finding housing or employment.
Steps to Take if You’re Accused of Domestic Violence
If you face felony or misdemeanor domestic violence charges in Fort Worth, taking the following steps can help protect your rights:
- Remain calm and do not attempt to contact the accuser directly or indirectly.
- Avoid making statements to law enforcement without legal representation.
- Gather and preserve evidence that could support your defense, such as texts, emails, or witness accounts.
From here, immediately seek advice from an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
How a Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
A criminal defense lawyer familiar with local courts and procedures is crucial in navigating a domestic violence accusation.
Your attorney can:
- Thoroughly investigate the facts of your case to build a strong defense.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or seek alternative resolutions.
- Represent you aggressively in court, protecting your rights throughout the process.
- Advise you on steps to improve your standing in court, such as counseling or anger management programs.
The sooner you hire an experienced attorney for your case, the better, as the prosecution is already working towards gathering evidence against you.
Contact a Fort Worth Domestic Violence Lawyer at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Facing domestic violence charges in Fort Worth, Texas, can feel overwhelming, but you likely still have time to fight back. An experienced Fort Worth domestic violence attorney can guide you through the process and work toward as favorable an outcome as possible.
For more information, please contact the domestic violence law firm of Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a consultation. Give us a call at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:
We serve the surrounding areas of Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102