Have you been charged with battery in Fort Worth, TX? In Texas, conduct that people often call “battery” is usually charged under the state’s assault law. A conviction could lead to jail time on top of other serious consequences, but it’s important to remember that you’re innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers can help you formulate an effective response to your charges and work toward the most favorable outcome possible.
Our Fort Worth battery attorneys have 60 years of combined experience and have helped countless clients respond to serious charges like these. We’ll put our winning reputation and track record of success to work for you from the moment you hire us.
Contact our law offices at (682) 428 7049 today for a consultation.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help With Your Battery Case in Fort Worth, Texas
The prosecution already has its mind made up about your case and believes you’re guilty, but the truth is that they must prove every element of your charges beyond a reasonable doubt. This is the highest burden of proof, and our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys know how to fight back.
When you hire Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we can:
- Investigate the circumstances of your arrest and the allegations against you
- Review all of the evidence the prosecution intends to use
- File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Gather witness statements and exculpatory evidence on your behalf
- Work to have your charges dismissed
- Represent you at every hearing and at trial if your case goes that far
Prosecutors pay attention when our Fort Worth battery attorneys step into the courtroom. Contact our law offices in Fort Worth, TX, today to get started.
How Texas Law Defines Assault
Texas handles assault and battery differently from many other states. Rather than treating them as separate crimes, Texas combines both offenses under the single umbrella of “assault” as defined in Texas Penal Code Section 22.01.
Under this statute, a person commits an offense when they:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another person
- Intentionally or knowingly threaten someone with imminent bodily injury
- Intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact with someone else when they know or should reasonably believe the contact will be regarded as offensive or provocative
So, while you may think of your charge as “battery,” it will most likely be prosecuted under the state’s assault statute. Nonetheless, this distinction doesn’t change the seriousness of the charge and the penalties you could face if you are convicted.
What Are the Potential Penalties for an Assault Conviction in Fort Worth?
The penalties you’ll face will ultimately come down to various factors, including the nature of your charges and whether you have a previous criminal history.
For example, a Class A misdemeanor assault conviction can result in:
- Up to one year in county jail
- A fine of up to $4,000
If the charge is elevated to aggravated assault and becomes a second-degree felony, the penalties increase to:
- 2 to 20 years in state prison
- A fine of up to $10,000
If the case involves domestic violence, also referred to as family violence, a conviction can also trigger additional penalties under Texas law. Collateral consequences can also result from being convicted of any of these crimes, including difficulty finding housing and employment.
What Defenses Can I Raise Against Assault Charges in Fort Worth, TX?
Every assault case in Fort Worth involves a unique set of facts, so each will require a unique defense strategy as well. Overall, some of the defenses that may apply to your situation include:
- You acted in self-defense or in defense of another person.
- The alleged contact was accidental and not intentional.
- Your constitutional rights were violated.
- The evidence against you was obtained illegally.
- The prosecution’s case relies on unreliable witness testimony.
- You have an alibi or were misidentified.
Our criminal defense lawyers will work hard to determine the best course of action for your specific case. While we will always aim to have your charges dropped, if possible, no particular outcome can be guaranteed in advance.
Schedule an Initial Consultation With a Fort Worth Battery Defense Attorney
Assault charges in Fort Worth, TX, are serious, but being charged is not the same as being convicted. You have the right to defend yourself, and the outcome of your case can depend heavily on who is representing you.
At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, our Fort Worth battery lawyers bring 60 years of combined experience to every case we take on. We’re passionate about our work and believe you deserve the best possible defense, so call us today to learn more and to schedule an initial consultation.
