If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Texas, it’s important to learn about how seriously these charges are treated. Prosecutors across the state coordinate closely with law enforcement to aggressively pursue convictions. This coordinated approach means that multiple agencies may work together to build a strong case against you from the moment of your arrest.
However, being charged with domestic violence does not mean you are guilty. Texas law still requires the prosecution to prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. With an experienced criminal defense lawyer by your side, you can challenge the state’s evidence and protect your freedom.
What Does Domestic Violence Prosecution Team Unity Mean?
Domestic violence prosecution in Texas has evolved over the years. Many counties now have specialized domestic violence divisions or “family violence prosecution teams” designed to handle these cases.
These teams include:
- Prosecutors and assistant district attorneys trained in domestic violence law
- Law enforcement officers assigned to domestic abuse or family violence units
- Victim advocates who communicate with alleged victims and provide resources
- Investigators who gather physical evidence and witness statements
The idea behind “team unity” is to ensure that all relevant parties within police and law enforcement work together. While this approach aims to protect victims, it also creates unique challenges for defendants.
Texas Domestic Violence Laws
Per Texas Penal Code § 22.01, domestic violence in Texas generally refers to assault offenses committed against a family or household member, including causing bodily injury, making threats, or engaging in offensive physical contact.
The law applies to a wide range of relationships, including:
- Current and former spouses
- Dating partners
- Parents and children
- Roommates and members of the same household
Depending on the allegations, domestic violence may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. By default, the penalties might include:
- Class A misdemeanor: causing bodily injury to a family or household member (up to one year in jail and $4,000 in fines)
- Third-degree felony: strangulation and repeat offenses (2 to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines)
- Second-degree felony: aggravated assault involving serious bodily injury (2 to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine)
Additionally, if a protective order is violated, you could face separate criminal penalties. These cases can also lead to debilitating collateral consequences, including difficulty finding housing and employment.
How the “Team Unity” Approach Could Affect Your Case
When a domestic violence case is assigned to a unified prosecution team, the coordination between law enforcement and prosecutors can significantly affect the defense strategy.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Early case development
- Limited discretion for dismissal
- Increased evidence sharing
- Heightened sentencing requests
It’s vital to retain a criminal defense lawyer who understands how these teams operate in these circumstances. Your attorney must act quickly to gather any exculpatory evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s theory.
Building a Successful Defense Against Domestic Violence Charges
There are many effective defenses available in Texas domestic violence cases. Your attorney will investigate the circumstances of your arrest and challenge the state’s evidence wherever possible.
Common strategies may include:
- Self-defense
- Defense of others
- False accusations
- Lack of criminal intent
- Constitutional rights violations
- Insufficient evidence
- Procedural violations
No outcome can be guaranteed in these cases. However, it’s possible that a successful defense could lead to your charges being dropped altogether.
What to Do if You’re Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Texas
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, your actions immediately after the arrest can make a significant difference in your case.
Keep the following in mind:
- Do not contact the alleged victim. Doing so could violate a protective order and lead to additional charges.
- Avoid discussing your case publicly or on social media, as those statements can be used against you.
- Gather evidence such as text messages, photos, and witness contact information that may support your defense.
- Contact a defense lawyer immediately. You should take this step before speaking to investigators and attending any court appearances.
An experienced domestic violence attorney can represent you during all of your court appearances as well as at trial if necessary.
Contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Today for a Consultation With a Fort Worth Domestic Violence Lawyer
Facing domestic violence charges in Texas can feel daunting when the prosecution is working in unity against you. However, with an experienced Fort Worth domestic violence lawyer on your side, you still have the power to challenge the state’s case against you.
A successful defense begins with understanding how these coordinated teams operate and responding strategically at every stage. Contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers today at (682) 777-3336 to schedule an initial consultation. The sooner you reach out, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
