If you’re accused of assault, you need a steadfast team of Houston assault lawyers in your corner who can effectively represent you. The Sparks Law Firm is a staunch legal advocate for all those facing criminal charges in Texas, and we’re prepared to fight for the best outcome possible on your behalf.
Assault Lawyers | Here to Defend Your Future
Our team of skilled Harris County criminal defense lawyers has, for decades, stood up for those wrongfully accused of assault and other crimes in the Greater Houston area. If you’re accused of assault, you can have confidence in your decision to turn to Sparks Law Firm for help.
Texas Assault Charges and Their Penalties
Assault charges in Texas can be broken down into three primary categories. They are as follows:
- Simple Assault: At its most basic, an assault in Texas can be classified as a simple assault. This occurs when someone intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another, threatens someone with imminent bodily harm, or causes physical contact that the victim perceives as offensive or provocative. Simple assault can be classified as a Class C, B, or A misdemeanor, and penalties can range from a fine of up to $500 for a Class C misdemeanor to jail time of up to one year and/or a fine of up to $4,000 for a Class A misdemeanor.
- Aggravated Assault: This charge is more severe than simple assault. Aggravated assault is when someone causes serious bodily injury to another or uses or exhibits a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault. Aggravated assault is typically a second-degree felony, which can result in two to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. However, if the assault is committed against a family member or in certain other situations, it can be elevated to a first-degree felony, which can lead to a prison sentence ranging from five to 99 years.
- Assault on a Public Servant: Assaulting a public servant, such as a police officer or a firefighter, can lead to heightened charges and penalties. Assault on a public servant is usually a third-degree felony, punishable by two to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Common Defenses in Assault Cases
Every case is different, and the defense your lawyer chooses will depend on the circumstances of your specific case. That said, some of the most common defenses used in assault cases are as follows:
- Self-Defense: One of the most commonly invoked defenses, it argues that the accused was protecting themselves from an imminent threat of bodily harm.
- Defense of Others: Similar to self-defense, but in this case, the accused was acting to protect another person from harm.
- Consent: In some situations, the defense might argue that the alleged victim had given consent for the act, especially in cases of sexual assault.
- Lack of Intent: The defense might argue that the accused did not have the intent to harm, which is a crucial component of an assault charge.
- Mistaken Identity: The accused might argue that they were not the person who committed the alleged assault.
- Alibi: Providing evidence that the accused was elsewhere when the assault took place can be a strong defense.
Contact Our Harris County, Texas Assault Lawyers
Don’t face an assault charge on your own–contact the dedicated Houston assault lawyers here at the Sparks Law Firm for a free initial consultation today.
