Keller Assault Defense Attorney

Reliable Assault Defense Lawyer for Clients in Keller, Texas

Sometimes, seemingly minor acts of aggression can come with serious criminal prosecution. Many aggressive acts are charged as assault in Texas, with penalties ranging from misdemeanor to felony punishments depending on the nature of the alleged offense. If you have been accused of assault in any capacity, reach out to a Keller, TX assault defense attorney to begin discussing your defense strategy.

Violent crimes like assault may come with strict prosecution. As such, it is important that you seek out an experienced, reputable law firm to handle your case. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we have received over 400 5-star reviews for our exceptional service, as we have helped many clients get charges dismissed through strong advocacy.

What Counts as Assault in Texas?

Under Texas law, assault is defined broadly and includes a range of actions that involve threats or physical contact. A person may be charged with assault if they:

• Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another person
• Threaten someone with physical harm
• Make physical contact with another person in a way the victim finds offensive or provocative

Assault charges do not require visible injuries. For example, pushing someone in a heated argument or raising a fist in a threatening manner could lead to arrest. The severity of the charge may depend on the specific circumstances and the relationship between the accused and the alleged victim.

Simple assault by injury is typically a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. However, the charge can be elevated to a felony if certain aggravating factors are present. For instance, assault involving a family member with prior history, strangulation (impeding breath or blood flow), or assault against a public servant, emergency worker, or pregnant individual can lead to enhanced penalties and felony charges.

Understanding Charges of Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is a much more serious offense and is typically charged as a felony. A person may be charged with aggravated assault if they:

• Cause serious bodily injury to another person
• Use or exhibit a deadly weapon during the assault

The term "serious bodily injury" is used in reference to injuries that carry a serious risk of death or result in long-term disability or disfigurement. The use of firearms, knives, or even vehicles during an assault can elevate the offense.

Aggravated assault can be charged as a second-degree felony, carrying two to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. If the victim is a public servant, or if the offense results in serious bodily injury to a family member, the charge may be raised to a first-degree felony, punishable by five to 99 years in prison.

Can You Claim Self-Defense in an Assault Charge?

Texas law allows individuals to claim self-defense if they reasonably believed that force was the only way to avoid imminent physical danger. This defense can apply when:

• You were not the aggressor
• You used only the amount of force necessary to stop the threat
• You were responding to an immediate danger of harm

Self-defense does not apply if you provoked the confrontation or used excessive force. Our skilled attorney can help evaluate whether your case qualifies and how to present that argument effectively in court.

Meet With a Keller, TX Assault Defense Lawyer

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we can help you fight charges of assault in court, strategizing with you to work toward an ideal outcome. Our firm can look for mitigating circumstances and challenge the prosecution's case, pursuing a dismissal of charges whenever possible. To schedule a free consultation today, call us at 817-732-6392 or contact our Keller, Texas assault defense attorney.