Were you accused of domestic violence in Fort Worth, TX? A conviction could have serious consequences for your freedom, reputation, and family relationships. A Fort Worth domestic violence lawyer at Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers can protect your rights and help you navigate the charges against you. Contact us at (682) 777-3336 for a confidential consultation.
Our legal team has more than 60 years of combined criminal defense experience, including handling domestic violence cases. We’re prepared to investigate the allegations, build your defense, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Why Should I Hire Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for My Fort Worth Domestic Violence Case?
Domestic violence cases involve unique issues that many other criminal cases do not. Protective orders can take effect within hours of an arrest, limiting your contact with family. Prosecutors can also move forward even if the alleged victim wants the case dropped. You need a Fort Worth criminal defense attorney who understands these factors and knows how to make sure prosecutors hear your side of the story.
Clients throughout Fort Worth, Texas, trust our firm because:
- Our attorneys have over 60 years of combined experience in criminal law, including prosecuting and defending family violence cases
- Our team includes former prosecutors, a former magistrate judge, a former federal public defender, two board-certified attorneys, and a law professor
- We hold an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and have received the Avvo Clients’ Choice Award
- Our attorneys have been recognized by Super Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers, and Fort Worth Magazine
We examine the full relationship history and context behind every accusation. Call today for a confidential consultation with a Fort Worth domestic violence lawyer.
What Does Texas Law Consider Domestic Violence?
Texas uses the term “family violence” to describe domestic violence. The definition covers a wide range of conduct involving people connected by a close personal relationship.
Domestic violence victims can include:
- Current and former spouses
- Dating partners
- Household members
- Co-parents
- Certain family members
Allegations that can lead to a family violence charge include physical harm (e.g., hitting, pushing, or grabbing), threats of bodily injury, or offensive physical contact. Choking or strangulation is among the most serious forms of domestic violence, as is displaying a weapon during a confrontation.
What Charges Can I Face for Domestic Violence in Fort Worth?
Domestic violence allegations involving bodily injury may be prosecuted as assault under Texas Penal Code § 22.01. A first offense is generally a Class A misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Certain circumstances can increase the charge to a felony.
Charges can escalate to the felony level when certain aggravating factors are present:
- Allegations involving choking or strangulation
- A prior family violence conviction
- Serious bodily injury to the alleged victim
- Use or display of a deadly weapon
- Continuous violence against the family
Felony domestic violence charges can range from a third-degree felony (2 to 10 years) to a first-degree felony (5 to 99 years or life), depending on the circumstances. Courts may also impose probation, mandatory intervention programs, and protective orders as part of a sentence.
How Can a Domestic Violence Conviction Affect My Life Beyond the Sentence?
A family violence conviction can have consequences that extend beyond jail time or probation.
You may experience:
- A federal prohibition on possessing firearms or ammunition
- Difficulty passing employment background checks
- Professional licensing complications
- Immigration consequences if you are a non-citizen
- Custody and visitation restrictions in family court
- Housing difficulties tied to background screening
- A permanent criminal record
These potential consequences make it important to understand your options for addressing the underlying charge. In addition to the criminal penalties, a conviction may have long-term civil and professional effects.
What Defenses Can Be Raised Against a Domestic Violence Charge?
Every defense strategy depends on the unique facts and circumstances of the case.
However, several defenses may arise in Fort Worth domestic violence cases:
- Self-defense or defense of another person if you acted to protect yourself, a child, or someone else from immediate harm
- False or exaggerated allegations arising from custody disputes, divorce proceedings, or personal conflicts
- Accidental contact that was mischaracterized as a deliberate act of violence
- Inconsistent statements between a 911 recording, a police report, and the alleged victim’s later statements to investigators
- Constitutional violations involving an unlawful search, improper Miranda warnings, or coerced statements
Prosecutors must prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Domestic violence cases may depend heavily on witness statements, particularly when there is limited physical evidence. The available evidence, credibility of the witnesses, and circumstances surrounding the arrest can all be examined when determining whether the prosecution can meet its burden of proof.
A Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer can identify weaknesses in the state’s case and determine which defenses may apply.
Contact a Fort Worth Domestic Violence Attorney Today
An accusation is not a conviction. The prosecution has the burden of proving the charges beyond a reasonable doubt, and you have the right to challenge the evidence against you.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers brings over 60 years of combined experience to domestic violence cases. Speak with a Fort Worth domestic violence attorney by contacting us today for a confidential consultation.
