Have you been accused of domestic battery in McKinney, TX? A conviction can change your life forever, but being charged does not mean you are guilty. You still have the opportunity to defend yourself with help from a skilled McKinney domestic battery lawyer at Texas Defense Firm.
Our legal team brings together over 200 years of combined experience handling high-stakes criminal cases, from misdemeanors to the most serious felonies on the books. We understand how the prosecution thinks and will work hard to help you secure a favorable outcome.
Contact us today at (972) 369-0577 to schedule a consultation and discover your best course of action moving forward.
How Texas Defense Firm Can Help With a Domestic Battery Case in McKinney, Texas
Domestic battery cases in McKinney, Texas, are highly emotionally and legally complex. Law enforcement and prosecutors in Collin County take these cases seriously, but our experienced McKinney domestic violence attorneys know how to challenge their evidence and protect your rights.
When you hire Texas Defense Firm, we will:
- Conduct an independent investigation into the allegations against you
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Negotiate to have your charges reduced or dismissed, if possible
- Represent you aggressively in court if your case goes to trial
We’ll fight for your rights to the best of our ability throughout the entire legal process. Call our McKinney criminal defense lawyers today for an initial consultation.
An Overview of Domestic Battery Under Texas Law
Texas law doesn’t use the specific term “domestic battery.” Instead, these offenses fall under the broader category of assault involving family violence.
Under Texas Penal Code § 22.01, a person commits assault if they:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another person, including the person’s spouse;
- Intentionally or knowingly threaten another person with imminent bodily injury, including the person’s spouse; OR
- Intentionally or knowingly make physical contact that is provocative or offensive.
When the alleged victim is a family or household member, the offense becomes family violence and can carry harsher penalties as a result.
The law defines a family or household member as including:
- A current or former spouse
- Someone you live with or have lived with
- A person you share a child with
- A current or former dating partner
- Relatives by blood or marriage
Under this law, even minor physical contact or an argument that results in a police call can lead to criminal charges.
Possible Penalties for Domestic Battery in McKinney, TX
The penalties for domestic battery in Texas will ultimately hinge on the facts of your case and whether you have prior convictions. They may include:
- Class A Misdemeanor Assault (Bodily Injury): up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine
- Third-Degree Felony (Repeat Family-Violence Offense or Impeding Breath/Blood on a First Offense): between two and ten years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
- Second-Degree Felony (Impeding Breath/Blood With Qualifying Prior, or Other Statutory Aggravators): between two and 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
A domestic violence conviction can also result in:
- Loss of the right to own or possess firearms
- Protective orders
- Mandatory anger management
- Counseling
- Difficulty finding employment and housing
These penalties can follow you long after the case is resolved, which is why it’s crucial to have a qualified criminal defense attorney advocating for you as early as possible.
What Defenses Can Be Raised Against Domestic Battery Charges in McKinney?
Since each case is unique to some extent in terms of its surrounding circumstances, it also has a unique defense strategy. Common defenses in these cases may include:
- Self-defense: You were defending yourself or another person.
- Lack of intent: The act was accidental, not intentional.
- False allegations: The alleged victim fabricated or exaggerated the claim.
- Insufficient evidence: There isn’t enough proof beyond a reasonable doubt to sustain a conviction.
- Violation of rights: Police obtained evidence through an illegal search or interrogation.
Our domestic violence lawyers won’t cut any corners when it comes to thoroughly researching your case to determine the best defense(s) possible.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Experienced McKinney Domestic Battery Lawyers
If you’ve been charged with domestic battery in McKinney, TX, don’t wait to get help. The prosecutors in Collin County will begin building their case immediately, and so should you.
At Texas Defense Firm, our McKinney domestic battery attorneys possess over 200 years of combined criminal defense experience and a proven track record of success in Texas courts. We understand what’s at stake for you, and we’ll fight tirelessly to protect your future and your freedom.
Reach out to our law office today to arrange a complimentary consultation.