When someone is convicted of felony assault in Texas, the impact on their life can be severe and long-lasting. Felony assault charges are serious crimes that come with harsh punishments under Texas law. Being charged with such a crime is overwhelming, and understanding the possible outcomes is crucial. The state of Texas takes felony assault seriously because it involves harm or threats to another person, which makes the crime a significant concern for public safety.
In Texas, felony assault can result from different types of actions. It could involve physical harm, threats of violence, or even the use of a weapon. The severity of the assault and the circumstances surrounding it play a significant role in determining the charges. But regardless of the details, a felony conviction can change a person’s life in many ways, including prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. In this page, we will explore the potential consequences of a felony assault conviction in Texas and why it is so important to take such charges seriously. Wilder Law Firm provides skilled legal representation to defend individuals facing assault charges, working diligently to protect their rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Understanding Felony Assault in Texas
Felony assault in Texas typically involves more serious actions than misdemeanor assault. It is categorized into different levels, depending on the severity of the offense. In Texas, a person may face felony assault charges if they cause serious bodily injury to another person, use a deadly weapon during the assault, or assault a public servant, family member, or someone in a protected category. When charged with felony assault, the level of the felony can range from third-degree to first-degree, with first-degree being the most severe.
For instance, if someone causes serious physical injury or uses a firearm during an assault, they could face higher charges. Even threatening someone with violence can escalate a case to felony assault, especially if the victim feels they are in real danger. What makes felony assault more alarming is that the consequences do not just end with jail time; there are numerous ways this can affect someone’s future.
PROTECTING YOUR RIGHTS AND FUTURE Attorney Douglas Wilder has always stayed on the cutting edge of training and attending seminars to ensure he has the most knowledge he can to represent his clients. This has led him to be recognized as one of the Best Lawyers under 40 in Dallas by D magazine, and also recognized as a Super Lawyer for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, & 2023. .
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Possible Prison Time and Fines
One of the first things that come to mind when people think of felony charges is prison. For felony assault convictions in Texas, the amount of prison time a person may face varies depending on the degree of the felony. In general, a third-degree felony can result in a prison sentence ranging from two to ten years. For a second-degree felony, the prison sentence can be anywhere from two to twenty years. In the case of a first-degree felony, which is the most serious, a person may face five years to life in prison.
Besides the prison sentence, hefty fines can also be imposed. These fines can reach up to $10,000, adding financial stress on top of the legal penalties. Such a significant sum can be overwhelming for most people, and it adds another layer of difficulty for someone convicted of felony assault.
Impact on Employment and Education
Beyond the legal penalties, a felony assault conviction in Texas can lead to difficulties in finding and keeping a job. Employers often perform background checks, and a felony conviction will show up on these records. Many companies are hesitant to hire someone with a criminal record, especially for violent crimes like assault. This can make it incredibly hard for someone with a felony conviction to find stable employment and support themselves financially.
The consequences also extend to education. Many colleges and universities are reluctant to accept students with felony records, particularly for violent crimes. Even if someone has already been accepted into a school or is attending classes, a felony conviction could lead to expulsion. This affects not only the individual’s ability to complete their education but also limits their future career prospects.
The Wilder Law Firm helped me overcome my case with the most favorable outcome possible. My case was dismissed very quickly and they kept me updated throughout the process. They handled all of my court appearances which kept me from having to spend time away from work. I greatly appreciate their help and would highly recommend them.” - Forrest Davis I hired the Wilder Law Firm to help with my Family Violence Citations due to it’s remarkable reviews, experience in the field and high approval rating! The firm successfully resolved my cases and got both of them dismissed. This has not only given me a greater relief, but I’m happy and excited that I have no record to worry about. Thank you everyone at the Wilder Law Firm for the support and patience with me. I’m very excited." - Steve Ak My advice– call Wilder Law Firm– they will help you! I had two cases in two different courts and they were able to get both dismissed! Facing these two charges put me in a really hard time for a few months but with the Wilder Law Firm’s help, I was able to put all this past me and move on with a clean record. This was a hard life lesson but I am thankful for the results." - Rudy Castanon
Loss of Rights and Privileges
A felony assault conviction in Texas can lead to the loss of several important rights. One of the most notable is the loss of the right to vote. In Texas, people convicted of a felony lose their right to vote while they are serving their sentence, including time spent on probation or parole. Although the right to vote can be restored after completing the sentence, the process is not automatic, and the individual must ensure it is done properly.
Another major consequence is the loss of the right to own or possess a firearm. Texas is a state where gun ownership is highly valued by many residents, but a felony conviction strips a person of this right. Even after serving their sentence, it may take many years or require a special process for a person to regain the ability to own a gun legally. This is a significant loss for individuals who value this right, particularly those who live in rural areas or have a history of hunting or other lawful gun use.
Damaged Personal Relationships
A felony conviction can also lead to strained or broken personal relationships. Family members and friends may find it difficult to understand or forgive someone who has been convicted of a violent crime. In cases where the victim is someone close to the accused, such as a family member or romantic partner, the conviction can lead to permanent rifts in those relationships.
This can be especially difficult for people with children. A felony conviction might affect child custody or visitation rights. Courts often consider a parent’s criminal history when deciding on custody matters, and a felony assault conviction could make it more challenging to maintain a close relationship with one’s children. These consequences can be some of the most painful for those convicted, as they affect the most personal and emotional aspects of life.
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Long-Term Impact on Housing
Felony assault convictions can also impact a person’s ability to find housing. Many landlords run background checks before renting to tenants. A felony conviction for assault is a red flag for most landlords, who may view the person as a potential threat to the safety of others. This makes it challenging to find stable housing, which is a crucial part of rebuilding one’s life after a conviction.
In some cases, even public housing options become unavailable to those with felony records. Federal law allows housing authorities to deny public housing to individuals with certain types of criminal convictions, including violent crimes like assault. For many people, this further limits their options and increases the stress of trying to reintegrate into society.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Given the serious consequences of a felony assault conviction in Texas, having strong legal representation is crucial. A person facing these charges must fully understand the severity of the situation and the impact it can have on their future. A knowledgeable attorney can help guide a person through the legal process, ensure their rights are protected, and work toward the best possible outcome in their case.
Legal representation is particularly important because the consequences of a conviction can vary depending on the details of the case. An attorney can help to potentially reduce the charges, negotiate a plea deal, or even challenge the evidence against the accused. For someone facing life-changing penalties, the support of an experienced lawyer is essential to navigating the complexities of Texas law.
Life After a Felony Assault Conviction
Although the consequences of a felony assault conviction are severe, life does not end after a conviction. It is important for individuals to remember that they can still rebuild their lives, even though it may be challenging. Many people who have been convicted of felonies find ways to become productive members of society, whether through education, work, or giving back to their communities.
It is crucial for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to follow the terms of their sentence carefully. This includes adhering to probation conditions, attending any required counseling or rehabilitation programs, and paying any fines. By staying committed to the conditions of their sentence, a person can show that they are taking responsibility for their actions and working toward a better future.
For those who have been charged with felony assault in Texas, seeking the help of a knowledgeable attorney is the first step toward protecting their rights and securing a brighter future.
If you or a loved one is facing a felony assault charge, it is essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. At Wilder Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming this time can be, and we are committed to providing the legal support you need to fight for your rights. Call us today for a consultation to discuss your case and begin building a strong defense.