As soon as you’ve been arrested for an assaultive offense in the Pearland or Houston area, you’ll want to know what happens next. Will you have to spend time in jail or pay expensive fines? How will this arrest or conviction impact your housing and employment options? How can you fight back against these charges? Before assuming the worst, it’s important to understand some factors that determine how much time you’ll spend behind bars (if any), as well as other consequences you might face.
Assaultive Offenses as Defined Under Texas Law
According to Title 5, Section 22.01 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits an assaultive offense if they: “(1) intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another, including the person’s spouse; (2) intentionally or knowingly threaten another with imminent bodily injury, including the person’s spouse; or (3) intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact with another when the person knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative.” Depending on the circumstances of the offense, whether you have prior assault convictions, and other factors, the court may charge you with either a felony or misdemeanor assault crime.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Assault Charges in Texas
Misdemeanor assaultive offenses involve instances where you may have threatened someone, offensively touched another person or caused less than serious bodily injury. If convicted, you could spend up to one year in jail, pay fines, and attend court-ordered anger management. Felony assault charges, such as those involving aggravated assault, carry weightier penalties. Depending on whether you brandished a weapon or caused serious injury to another, you could face between 2 to 99 years behind bars. However, those convicted of assault may become eligible for parole after serving a certain amount of time.
Working With a Skilled Pearland Defense Attorney is Essential
If you’re arrested and charged with assault in Texas, you may think that you have no say in what happens next. However, those who enlist the guidance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer can have a better shot at securing the best possible outcome given the specifics of the case. Quality legal representation can mean the difference between acquittal and conviction. Even if you’re convicted, your attorney can advocate for probation over jail time. Don’t leave your future up to chance—contact a trusted lawyer right away.
If you or a loved one is facing assault charges in the Pearland area, call the Law Offices of Keith G. Allen, PLLC today at (832) 230-0075 to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated criminal defense attorney.
