Types of Assault Charges in Texas
In Texas, assault charges are categorized based on the severity of the offense and the circumstances surrounding it. The two primary types of assault charges are simple assault and aggravated assault. Simple assault involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, threatening someone with imminent bodily injury, or causing physical contact with another when the person knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative. This type of assault is generally classified as a Class A misdemeanor, but it can be elevated to a felony in certain situations, such as if the victim is a public servant or the assault involves a family member. Aggravated assault, on the other hand, involves more severe actions, such as causing serious bodily injury to another person or using or exhibiting a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault. Aggravated assault is typically charged as a second-degree felony but can be elevated to a first-degree felony under specific circumstances, such as if the assault is committed against a public servant, a witness, or in retaliation for the victim’s service or status. The classification of the assault charge greatly influences the potential penalties and long-term consequences.Penalties for Assault Convictions
The penalties for an assault conviction in Texas vary based on the type of assault and the severity of the offense. For simple assault, if charged as a Class A misdemeanor, the penalties may include up to one year in jail, a fine of up to $4,000, or both. If the assault is elevated to a felony due to specific circumstances, the penalties become more severe. For example, a third-degree felony assault can result in a prison sentence of two to ten years and a fine of up to $10,000. Aggravated assault carries even harsher penalties due to the serious nature of the crime. A second-degree felony conviction can lead to a prison sentence of two to twenty years and a fine of up to $10,000. If the aggravated assault is elevated to a first-degree felony, the prison sentence ranges from five to ninety-nine years or life imprisonment, along with a fine of up to $10,000. These penalties reflect the seriousness with which Texas law treats assault offenses and highlight the importance of mounting a strong defense if charged with assault.
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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. .
Long-Term Consequences of an Assault Conviction
Beyond the immediate legal penalties, an assault conviction in Texas has numerous long-term consequences that can affect various aspects of your life. One of the most significant impacts is on your criminal record. A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record that is accessible to employers, landlords, and others conducting background checks. This can severely limit your employment opportunities, as many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with a criminal history, particularly for positions that require trust and responsibility. The consequences also extend to housing. Landlords often perform background checks on potential tenants, and a criminal record can make it challenging to secure housing. Even if you manage to find a landlord willing to rent to you, your housing options may be limited, and you may face higher security deposits or other restrictions. Additionally, an assault conviction can impact your eligibility for certain professional licenses or certifications, which can further hinder your career prospects. Personal relationships may also suffer as a result of an assault conviction. Friends and family members may view you differently, and trust can be difficult to rebuild. This can lead to strained relationships and social isolation. Moreover, if the assault involved a family member or domestic partner, a conviction can result in protective orders that restrict your ability to contact or be near the victim, further complicating your personal life.
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