Domestic violence crimes are very serious. If you are charged with domestic violence in Fort Worth, TX, you need to prioritize your defense. If you are ultimately convicted of domestic violence, you may face severe consequences.
The best way to avoid these consequences is to hire a Fort Worth domestic violence lawyer to defend you. You need to fight back from the beginning of your case. Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers has over 60 years of combined experience. We understand that a domestic violence conviction will change your life.
Call our office to start defending yourself today at (682) 777-3336.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help If You Are Arrested For Domestic Violence In Fort Worth, TX
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers will stand by your side throughout the entire criminal defense process. We will handle every part of your defense from beginning to end. Our Fort Worth domestic violence team includes lawyers board-certified in criminal defense.
If you hire us after getting arrested for domestic violence, we will:
- Explain the charges and potential penalties
- File bond motions
- Collect and review evidence
- File pretrial motions
- Identify the strongest defense
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea deal
- Represent you every hearing and at trial
- Argue for a lenient sentence if you are convicted
Call our office to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth criminal defense attorney today.
What Is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is a type of family violence or intimate partner violence. This form of violence is known to be particularly dangerous for victims and damaging to society. As a result, there are different consequences if you are convicted. Usually, the consequences are more severe.
In order to be charged with domestic violence, the prosecution needs to prove that there is a particular type of relationship between the defendant and the alleged victim. Domestic violence protections may extend to:
- Family members by blood, adoption, or marriage
- Current or former spouse
- Children (including step-children)
- Former or current romantic partner
- Co-parents
Domestic violence charges can range from misdemeanor domestic assault to felonies. Felony charges are reserved for the most serious domestic offenses like strangulation, aggravated domestic assault, or people with past domestic assault convictions.
What Is The Penalty For A Domestic Violence Conviction?
The punishment for a domestic violence conviction depends on many factors. These factors include:
- The type of domestic violence charge
- The facts of the case
- Your prior criminal record
- Whether or not you went to trial or pleaded guilty
People who are convicted of a misdemeanor domestic violence charge with no prior record will usually have lesser consequences than people who are convicted of a felony or subsequent charge.
Misdemeanor Domestic Assault
Basic domestic assault is a Class A misdemeanor. If you are convicted, you will face up to 12 months in jail and a $4,000 fine. The conviction will also show up on your criminal record even though it is a misdemeanor.
Strangulation
Strangulation is a third-degree felony. This charge carries a hefty 2 to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. A strangulation charge will also stay on your criminal record. If you have a prior domestic violence conviction, then you could face up to 20 years in prison.
Multiple Instances Of Domestic VIolence Within 12 Months
Domestic violence is dangerous because it tends to be ongoing. If you are convicted of committing multiple acts of domestic violence within the prior 12 months, there are serious penalties. This is a third-degree felony that carries up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. It is important to note that you do not need to have been convicted of prior instances of domestic violence, only that they are alleged.
Aggravated Domestic Violence
Aggravated domestic violence happens when someone commits a domestic assault with a deadly weapon and:
- Causes serious bodily injury or
- Threatens serious bodily injury
This is a first-degree felony and carries 5 to 99 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Collateral Consequences For Domestic Violence Convictions
In addition to jail time and fines, there are significant collateral consequences for a domestic violence conviction. These consequences can include:
- Loss of employment prospects
- Difficulty finding housing
- Ineligibility to own a firearm
- Loss of the right to vote
- Impact on divorce or custody proceedings
- Social stigma
A domestic violence conviction will follow you for the rest of your life. You should always take these charges seriously and avoid a conviction at all costs.
How Can I Defend Against Domestic Violence Charges?
The best way to defend against domestic violence charges is to hire a Fort Worth domestic violence lawyer for help. They can pursue every viable defense in your case. Many domestic violence charges are based on false allegations. Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers can investigate the case and produce evidence that exonerates you.
Call us to discuss how you can avoid a conviction and the consequences of a Fort Worth domestic violence conviction today.
