Richardson Assault Defense Attorneys
Lawyers for Charges of Assault or Aggravated Assault in Richardson, Texas
Many people are surprised by how little it takes to be charged with assault in Texas. A person does not need to break someone's nose or leave a bruise to be charged with assault. A slap, a poke in the chest, or claims that a person made a threat during an argument could lead to an arrest and charges of assault. Understanding how to defend against assault charges and avoid convictions can be crucial for people in these situations.
At Texas Defense Firm, our lawyers defend people in Richardson who are facing assault charges. We can address violent crimes ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. We have extensive experience representing clients in hundreds of jury trials and other criminal cases, and we have secured "not guilty" verdicts for many clients. We know how local prosecutors approach these cases, and we will fight to resolve cases successfully while protecting our clients' futures.
What Counts as Assault in Richardson, Texas
Texas Penal Code § 22.01 details three reasons why people may be charged with assault:
- Causing Bodily Injury: A person may be accused of intentionally injuring someone or engaging in reckless behavior that led to an injury. The injuries that can lead to assault charges may include anything that causes physical pain, and visible marks are not required. Allegations of assault involving injuries may result in Class A misdemeanor charges.
- Threatening Harm: A person may face accusations that they made threats against someone else and acted in a way that indicated that they were going to inflict an injury. In these cases, a person may be charged with a Class C misdemeanor.
- Offensive Contact: Purposely making physical contact with someone in a way that the other person found to be offensive is another form of assault. These accusations may lead to Class C misdemeanor charges.
Everyday Situations That May Lead to Assault Charges
Assault cases rarely involve strangers attacking each other without warning. More often, arrests and criminal charges grow out of ordinary situations that got out of hand, such as:
- A Bar or Restaurant Dispute: Two people may exchange words, and one may push the other. This may lead staff members to call the police, who may arrest one or both parties.
- A Road Rage Encounter: A driver may get out of their car at a red light, yell at another motorist, and grab their arm through an open window, which may be considered threatening behavior and offensive contact.
- A Disagreement at Home: Roommates or partners may argue, and one person may report that they were shoved or scratched. These situations may lead to domestic violence charges.
- A Youth Sports Event: A parent may confront a coach or referee and make physical contact in front of witnesses. The witnesses' statements may be used to support assault charges.
When Assault Becomes Aggravated Assault
Under Texas Penal Code § 22.02, a person may be charged with aggravated assault based on the following factors:
Serious Bodily Injury
When the injuries that allegedly occurred because of assault go beyond pain or bruising, a person could be charged with aggravated assault. An injury may qualify as a serious bodily injury if it allegedly put someone at risk of death or led to long-term impairments or disfigurement. Examples may include a broken jaw requiring surgery, an eye injury that led to vision impairment, or a head injury that had permanent effects.
Using or Displaying a Deadly Weapon
Charges of aggravated assault involving a deadly weapon can lead to serious penalties. Any object may be considered to be a deadly weapon if the way it was used could lead to death or a serious injury. In addition to guns or knives, items like beer bottles, baseball bats, steel-toed boots, or vehicles may be considered deadly weapons. Accusations of displaying a weapon while making a threat could lead to aggravated assault charges.
Contact Our Richardson, TX Assault Defense Lawyers
An assault charge may range from a Class C misdemeanor to a first-degree felony depending on the people who were involved, the circumstances surrounding an incident, the injuries that allegedly occurred, and the use of objects that could be considered to be weapons. People facing these charges will need to understand the right ways to respond.
At Texas Defense Firm, our lawyers can provide the representation needed to help defend against assault or aggravated assault charges. The sooner our team gets involved, the sooner we can preserve evidence, speak with witnesses, and begin pushing back against accusations made by alleged assault victims. To discuss your situation with a lawyer who will listen and fight for you, reach out to our Richardson, Texas assault attorneys by calling 972-369-0577. We are available 24/7, and we will provide you with a free consultation.
