McKinney, TX Assault Defense Attorneys

Lawyers Defending Against Assault and Battery Charges in McKinney, Texas

For many people, the term "assault" would seem to refer to situations where someone viciously attacks and injures someone else. However, there are many other types of situations where people may be charged with the criminal offense of assault. The penalties for this offense can be serious, and a conviction can have a lasting impact on a person's reputation, employment opportunities, and personal relationships.

If you are facing assault allegations, it is crucial to work with a skilled McKinney criminal defense attorney who can evaluate the facts of your case and determine your ideal strategies for defending against a conviction. At The Crowder Law Firm, P.C., our lawyers can advise you on whether self-defense, lack of intent, or other defenses may be appropriate in your case, and we will work to protect your rights throughout the legal process.

How Texas Law Defines Assault

While the laws of some states make a distinction between assault and battery, Texas groups these offenses together into one category known simply as assault. You could be charged with assault based on accusations that you purposely injured someone or threatened to inflict an injury. These charges may apply even if you only made brief physical contact with someone else, but that person believed the contact was offensive or provocative.

When Assault Becomes Aggravated Assault

An assault charge may be elevated to aggravated assault if you are accused of inflicting serious bodily injuries or if you allegedly used or displayed a deadly weapon while committing assault. A serious bodily injury may include any form of bodily harm that put someone at risk of dying, being permanently disabled, or suffering disfigurement. A deadly weapon may include a firearm or another weapon that could inflict a serious injury, such as a knife or brass knuckles.

Potential Penalties for Assault and Aggravated Assault

The penalties for an assault conviction in Texas may include:

• Misdemeanor Assault: If an alleged offense involved offensive physical contact or a threat of harm without bodily injury, it will usually result in Class C misdemeanor charges. A conviction may lead to a fine of up to $500. If you allegedly caused bodily injury to another person, you may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by a maximum jail sentence of one year and a fine of up to $4,000.
• Felony Assault: Assault charges may be enhanced to a third-degree felony if the alleged victim is a security officer, emergency worker, or hospital personnel. Second-degree felony charges may apply if the alleged victim is a police officer or judge. A third-degree felony conviction may lead to a sentence of two to 10 years in prison, while a second-degree felony carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years.
• Aggravated Assault: This charge is generally classified as a second-degree felony. However, first-degree felony charges may apply in certain situations, such as when a person discharges a firearm from a motor vehicle or commits assault during a mass shooting. A conviction for a first-degree felony will lead to a minimum sentence of five years up to a maximum of 99 years.

Assault Charges in Domestic Violence Cases

Assault charges are common in cases involving allegations of domestic violence against a current or former spouse, a current or former dating partner, a family member, or someone with whom the accused shares a household. When an assault is classified as family violence, the legal consequences are often more severe.

Texas law allows for enhanced penalties in cases of domestic assault, particularly if a person has prior a history of family violence. A domestic assault charge that would normally be a misdemeanor may be elevated to a third-degree felony if a person had previously been convicted of a domestic violence offense. A charge of aggravated assault may be elevated to a first-degree felony if a person is accused of using a deadly weapon and inflicting a serious bodily injury on a member of their family or household.

Defending Against Assault Charges in McKinney

Our defense attorneys can work with you to determine the legal strategies that may be used to fight assault charges. These may include:

• Self-Defense: If you acted to protect yourself against harm, the use of force may be legally justified.
• Defense of Others: You may be able to show that your actions were justified because you were protecting another person from being harmed.
• Lack of Intent: Assault charges must be based on intentional acts. If the alleged contact was accidental, this may be a valid defense.
• False Accusations: In some cases, accusations may be exaggerated or completely fabricated due to personal disputes, or they may be based on mistaken identity.

We will carefully review evidence, including witness statements, surveillance footage, medical records, and police reports, to build a strong defense for you.

Contact Our McKinney Assault Defense Lawyers

If you have been accused of assault in McKinney, Texas, legal representation is essential as you defend against criminal charges. The McKinney assault attorneys at The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. can evaluate your case and explain your legal options, and we are ready to provide you with effective legal representation during your case. To arrange a free consultation, contact us at 214-544-0061.