Domestic Violence Charges
Few things are as complex and fraught as the concept of domestic violence. The stakes are extremely high, and the emotional and personal consequences are devastating. But facing an accusation of domestic violence does not have to ruin your life. Not with our help.
At Adamo & Adamo Law Firm, we are a dedicated team of attorneys working in Houston and Austin to protect clients facing serious charges of all kinds. Domestic violence charges feature a lot of emotionally charged concepts and relations. They create panic and stress in people facing allegations, and the most effective way to resolve that stress is with information.
An Overview Of Domestic Violence Laws In Texas
The state of Texas defines domestic violence as an act of violence committed by someone against a member of their own household, adult or child. The law also includes “dating violence,” which is between people in a “dating relationship.” To go any further, we need to define two terms under Texas law:
- Violence: Physical harm, bodily injury, sexual assault, intimidation tactics and sexual exploitation are all aspects of violence under the law.
- Dating relationship: People are seen to have a dating relationship if there was a “continuing romantic or intimate relationship.”
These terms and items form the basis of the charge of domestic violence, leaving you vulnerable to severe penalties.
The Penalties Of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence penalties coincide with the penalties for assault, which we explain in detail on this page. Overall, domestic violence carries more serious penalties than a corresponding assault charge. The lowest charge for domestic violence is a Class A misdemeanor, and a pattern of domestic violence can be as high as a Class B felony.
The fines and jail sentences are considerable. However, there are other potential legal penalties for domestic violence, including protective orders and loss of gun ownership rights. While Texas does not have a comprehensive law prohibiting those convicted of domestic violence from owning or purchasing firearms, there are some federal prohibitions. Additionally, anyone who is the subject of a domestic violence protective order may also lose their firearms rights.
Why You Should Use A Domestic Violence Defense Attorney
In any criminal charge, having us on your side as your domestic violence defense attorney will make a big difference. As attorneys, we understand the law, we understand courtrooms, and we understand procedure in a way people who aren’t attorneys simply can’t match.
We use the skills we developed over the years of courtroom experience to provide a firm defense of our clients. This is built by:
- Protecting your rights: Your right to remain silent is your most important right early in a police investigation, but you have many other important rights. We fight for you, forcing the prosecution to respect your rights fully.
- Investigate witness testimony: In domestic violence cases, it is often your word against the word of someone else. This means that we can take an aggressive stance with this testimony and break it down as part of the defense.
- Provide alternate evidence: The second half of a prosecution’s case will be physical evidence, such as photos or DNA. However, evidence is only powerful in context, and not all evidence can withstand scrutiny.
In addition to our work in the courtroom, we will represent you in discussions with the state. We can pursue lesser charges in a plea deal or even work hard enough to completely disarm the evidence against you.
Aggressive, Thorough Defense From Adamo & Adamo Law Firm
Our defense of you is tailor-made. Your circumstances and charges are unique, and you deserve all of the attention and strength we can muster. Reach out to us today by phone at 713-237-8380 or send an email using this online form.
