Are you facing assault charges in Fort Worth, TX? If so, it is essential to obtain legal representation to safeguard your rights and future. Assault charges can lead to severe penalties and a lasting criminal record that may impact various aspects of your life.
At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, we have the knowledge and skills to navigate the challenges of the criminal justice system on your behalf. Our legal team has over six decades of combined experience, and we’ve handled hundreds of cases in Texas. We’ll diligently fight for you and protect your rights throughout the process.
If you need help, contact our office at 682 777 3336 to schedule a confidential consultation with a Fort Worth assault defense lawyer.
How Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help If You’re Arrested for Assault in Fort Worth, TX
Being arrested for assault can be a daunting experience, but having a dedicated legal team by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Here’s how our Fort Worth criminal defense lawyers can assist you:
- We will thoroughly evaluate the specifics of your case to identify potential defenses and legal vulnerabilities.
- Our lawyers will inform you about Texas assault laws and possible penalties associated with convictions so you know what to expect.
- We’ll collect all relevant evidence, such as witness statements and surveillance footage, which may establish reasonable doubt or support a self-defense argument.
- Our team can negotiate plea deals with prosecutors to potentially reduce or dismiss charges or seek lighter sentencing options when appropriate.
- Beyond just legal assistance, we offer emotional support and guidance through what can be a stressful and overwhelming experience.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Fort Worth, Texas, let Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers help. Contact our Fort Worth assault defense attorneys for trusted legal advice.
Overview of Assault in Texas
Under Texas law, assault is defined by several specific actions that can lead to criminal charges. The three primary behaviors of assault include:
Causing Physical Harm
An individual commits assault if they intentionally or recklessly cause physical harm or injury to another person. This does not require severe violence; even minor injuries can result in an assault charge.
Threatening Imminent Harm
Assault also occurs when a person intentionally threatens another with imminent physical harm, instilling fear and apprehension about potential violence. This means an assault can occur even if there is no harm done to the alleged victim.
Offensive Contact
Using offensive or provocative physical contact against someone else constitutes an act of assault as well – this includes any unwanted touching that the victim finds offensive.
Assault is a serious offense that includes various types of conduct and carries serious penalties that can impact your life significantly if convicted.
What Are the Potential Penalties For Assault in Texas?
In Fort Worth, Texas, the penalties for assault can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the severity of the offense and whether it is classified as a misdemeanor or felony. Understanding these potential consequences is essential for anyone facing these charges.
Class C Misdemeanor
A Class C misdemeanor occurs in situations where an individual threatens harm without resulting in physical injury or when there is an offensive or provocative touching of another person. The penalty for a Class C misdemeanor is relatively minor compared to other levels of this offense, carrying a maximum fine of $500.
Class B Misdemeanor
Assault that takes place in the context of a sporting event – such as actions against umpires, players, or referees – falls under a Class B misdemeanor. This category incurs more serious penalties, which can include a fine of up to $2,000 and a possible jail term of 180 days.
Class A Misdemeanor
When an assault leads to physical injury or involves an attack against a disabled or elderly individual, it is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. The consequences for this level of offense can be quite severe, including fines of up to $4,000 and a maximum of one year in jail.
Third-Degree Felony
Assault that results in physical injury to certain protected individuals – such as family members, public servants, or emergency personnel – is categorized as a third-degree felony. This carries significant penalties, including a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence ranging from two to ten years.
Second-Degree Felony
Aggravated assault, which involves the use of a weapon or causes serious bodily harm, is regarded as a second-degree felony. The potential penalties are substantial, entailing fines of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of two to 20 years.
First-Degree Felony
The most severe category is a first-degree felony, which applies in cases where aggravated assault is committed against specific individuals such as security officers, public servants, or individuals who report crimes. The penalties are harsh, with fines of up to $10,000 and the possibility of a life sentence in prison.
Navigating the legal implications of assault charges in Texas can be complicated. It is crucial to seek experienced legal counsel to understand the full extent of the potential penalties and to build a strong defense.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Assault in Fort Worth, Texas?
Numerous legal defenses can be considered, depending on the specifics of the case, the evidence presented, and the jurisdiction’s laws. Below are some common defenses that may be applicable in Fort Worth assault cases.
Self-Defense
Self-defense is perhaps the most widely used justification for assault. This defense asserts that the accused acted to protect themselves from imminent harm. For this defense to be credible, the use of force must be proportional to the threat faced. If the belief that harm was imminent was reasonable and the response was necessary to avoid that harm, self-defense can effectively negate liability.
Defense of Others
Similar to self-defense, the defense of others applies when an individual intervenes to protect another person from harm. The defendant must demonstrate that they reasonably believed the other person was in danger of being harmed and that their response was proportionate to the threat.
Consent
In certain situations, consent may serve as a valid defense against assault charges. If the alleged victim agreed to the actions that caused their injury – common in scenarios involving contact sports or consensual physical confrontations – the defense of consent may negate the assault claim. However, this defense is typically limited and does not apply when serious injury or violence is involved.
Lack of Intent
Assault is generally categorized as a crime requiring intent. If a defendant can show that their actions were unintentional, they may successfully argue a lack of intent. This is often the case in accidents where physical injury occurs but without the intention to cause harm.
Mistaken Identity
Mistaken identity is a defense that asserts the accused individual was incorrectly identified as the perpetrator of an assault or crime. This can occur when eyewitness accounts are unreliable, especially under stressful situations where details may be overlooked or misconstrued.
Your Fort Worth criminal defense attorney can present evidence such as alibi witnesses or surveillance footage that demonstrates you were not at the scene of the incident, challenging any claims made against you.
False Allegations
This defense can involve various strategies, such as providing alibi evidence, highlighting inconsistencies in the accuser’s testimony, or presenting character witnesses who can attest to the accused’s reputation.
Additionally, proving that the allegations were made with malicious intent and explaining why they were made is helpful. For example, if the alleged victim has a history of making false accusations or the parties are in the middle of a custody battle, this may suggest ulterior motives for the allegations.
Reaching out to an experienced attorney is the best way to determine which defense strategy is most suitable for your particular situation.
If you or a loved one has been accused of assault, securing skilled legal representation is crucial. Our criminal defense lawyers in Fort Worth will discuss your circumstances and provide insight into potential defense strategies.
Contact Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers to speak with an experienced Fort Worth assault defense attorney.
