Fort Worth Domestic Violence Lawyers

Protecting Your Rights During This Difficult Time

Domestic violence is a serious offense in Texas. If you have been wrongly accused of domestic violence, you should seek help immediately.

If you are a victim of domestic violence and fear for your safety, contact a local domestic violence shelter in Fort Worth and get in touch with an experienced attorney to understand your rights.

Types of Domestic Violence Recognized Under Texas Law

Texas state law recognizes three different types of domestic violence:

• Domestic assault

This type of assault can be either a threat or a violent act committed against an individual that the defendant has/had an intimate relationship with and involves some type of physical injury.

An intimate relationship is defined as a relationship with someone, including a family member, roommate, child, current or former spouse, or a current or former boyfriend/girlfriend.

• Aggravated domestic assault

Aggravated domestic assault is assault that causes a serious bodily injury. A deadly weapon is used, which could be a firearm, knife, or something else – depending on the circumstances. A serious bodily injury is defined as an injury that creates a substantial risk of death.

• Continuous violence against the family

If a defendant commits two or more domestic assaults within a specific time frame, it is called continuous domestic violence. A conviction would be considered a third-degree felony.

What Is Considered a Deadly Weapon in a Domestic Violence Case?

In Texas, intention has an impact on what is considered a deadly weapon. Anything designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death or serious bodily harm is considered a deadly weapon by law. Here are some examples of deadly weapons:

• Firearms
• Brass knuckles
• Knives
• Baseball bats
• Rope

How to Report an Act of Domestic Violence in Texas

An act of domestic violence is not something that just happens randomly. It usually occurs after other controlling types of behavior has taken place. As such, the first step in reporting domestic violence is to call the police to report the event as soon as it happens or as soon as is possible. You will need to make a criminal complaint, which is often a sworn statement from law enforcement.

If you need additional support, resources, counseling, and/or assistance creating a plan to help you move out of a dangerous environment or living situation, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline. All calls are confidential and anonymous.

What to Do When Wrongly Accused of a Domestic Violence Crime

If you were wrongly accused of committing a domestic violence crime, you need to contact an attorney from our firm as soon as possible. If accused of this crime, you could face time in prison, probation, and fines.

How Our Domestic Violence Attorneys Can Help You Navigate Your Case

Acts of domestic violence unfortunately happen more frequently than most people think. Repeat offenses are also common as well with nearly 80% of women between the ages of 18 and 24 reporting being victimized more than once by the same partner. Give us a call as soon as possible if you are a victim of such abuse.

Additionally, if you have been wrongly accused of committing an act of domestic violence, you will need to call a lawyer immediately. These acts are considered felonies and you could face jail time, fines, and capital punishment.

Contact us online or give us a call at (817) 497-8148 to book an initial consultation to learn more about our domestic violence services today!