Houston Assault Attorney

Texas Assault Laws

Have you been arrested on an assault charge? If so, representation by an experienced Houston assault attorney is essential. Without it, your rights and your freedom are at risk. 

The Law Offices of Jed Silverman is a criminal defense firm that has successfully represented numerous people accused of assault and other felony crimes. We are experienced, knowledgeable in the law and tenacious in the defense of our clients. Attorney Jed Silverman can review your case and discuss possible defense strategies with you.

Arrested for assault in Texas? Contact our experienced firm online for a free consultation or give us a call (713) 597-2221 now to speak with our Houston assault lawyer.

Simple vs. Aggravated Assault in Texas

There are two general categories of assault in the Texas Penal Code: 

• Simple assault 
• And aggravated assault

What Constitutes Simple Assault in Texas?

A person can be charged with simple assault if he or she:

• Commits an intentional, knowing or reckless act that causes bodily harm to another person
• Threatens another person with imminent bodily harm
• Or touches another person in a manner they know, or should know, would be considered offensive by the other person

Depending on the circumstances, simple assault charges can range from a Class C misdemeanor to a second degree felony.

What is Aggravated Assault in Texas?

An assault charge can be upgraded to aggravated assault if the allegations involve certain factors, such as using or displaying a weapon, or causing serious bodily injury. Aggravated assault will usually be charged as a second degree felony, but it can be elevated to a first degree felony under some circumstances.

These circumstances include when the victim is a member of the defendant's household and the defendant has a previous conviction for domestic assault; where either the victim or the defendant is a public servant acting on their duty; or the victim is a security officer.

Examining All Legal and Factual Defenses

Texas law makes fine distinctions between degrees of assault based on the specific behavior that constituted your particular assault crime. We will undertake a comprehensive review of your case, looking for legal and factual issues that could lead to a positive outcome in your case.

In Texas, an individual is permitted to use force against another person if the individual acted with a reasonable belief that the alleged victim was about to use unlawful force against him or her. Similarly, a defendant can argue that he or she used force against the alleged victim to protect a third person from harm, as long as the defendant reasonably believed the alleged victim was about to use unlawful force against the third person.

Depending on circumstances, a few potential defenses to your assault charge might be:

• Self-defense
• Protection of another person
• Mutual combat

Our defense preparation may include research by a private investigator who can interview witnesses and develop other evidence in your favor. Our Houston assault lawyers will work to build a strong and effective defense for you, designed to protect your rights and preserve your freedom.

Texas Assault Penalties

An assault charge in Texas can have serious consequences. If convicted of felony assault, the defendant can face a state prison sentence. Even a misdemeanor assault can result in jail time and stiff fines. A conviction for any violent crime can make it hard to get a job or an apartment. Anyone facing an assault charge needs to put up an aggressive defense.

Understanding Self-Defense in Assault Cases

When facing assault charges, it's important to understand your rights and potential defense strategies. One common defense in assault cases is self-defense, which allows individuals to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. Our experienced Houston assault attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of self-defense laws in Texas and build a strong defense for your case.

Key points to consider when using self-defense as a defense strategy:

• Evidence of imminent danger or threat
• Proportionality of force used in self-defense
• Reasonable belief of harm or injury
• Retreat as a factor in self-defense claims

By working with our legal team, you can ensure that your rights are protected and explore all possible defense strategies for your assault case.

Contact us Today

Jed Silverman has earned a reputation for tenacity in defense of his clients. Mr. Silverman looks far beyond the contents of the police report, seeking evidence that can support his defense theory. Whenever possible, he makes aggressive use of motions to suppress and motions to dismiss. In every case, Jed Silverman seeks the best outcome possible. The Law Offices of Jed Silverman will work energetically at all stages of the legal process to defend your rights and preserve your freedom. 

For a free initial consultation with our Houston assault lawyer from The Law Offices of Jed Silverman, call (713) 597-2221 or contact us online. Se habla español.