In the state of Texas, domestic violence is a serious crime. These charges can negatively impact lives forever. These criminal charges can result in people receiving restraining or protective orders, jail time, and, or heavy fines.
Domestic violence refers to violence committed in the home against another family member. This crime can involve threats, controlling behavior, violent physical harm, and coercion. We understand that facing allegations of this crime is difficult. Being accused of domestic violence can damage your reputation and livelihood.
If you are facing allegations of domestic abuse, you need to get in contact with a domestic violence attorney immediately. These allegations need to be taken seriously and dealt with appropriately. We have a vast amount of legal experience and our team in Sugar Land, TX can build you a strong defense strategy.
Contact our law office in Sugar Land, TX at 832-843-1691.
Domestic Violence in Texas
Family disagreements are not uncommon and they occur in most households. However, a person can be accused of domestic violence if they do any of the following to a family member:
- Cause violent bodily harm.
- Threaten to injure with violence.
- Get involved in offensive contact.
- Invade personal space.
In Sugar Land, TX., reckless behavior is also classed as domestic violence. These crimes are very complex legal issues. This makes it advisable to speak to a criminal defense attorney if you are facing domestic violence allegations.
Aggravated Domestic Assault in Sugar Land
A crime is classed as an aggravated domestic assault in Sugar Land, TX, when the display or use of a weapon causes harm to a victim. These criminal charges involve victims receiving physical injuries that may require hospitalization.
If a person is charged with aggravated domestic assault, they will have committed a first-degree felony. The penalties attached to these criminal charges are very severe.
If you have been accused of aggravated domestic assault, you need to contact a domestic violence defense attorney at our law office immediately. This is a serious offense and should not be taken lightly.
Protect Your Integrity Following a False Accusation
If you have been arrested for domestic violence, an attorney at our law firm will investigate your case to find evidence to protect your legal rights. We will examine witness statements, accounts of the incident, physical evidence (including bodily injuries and signs of violence), police reports of the criminal investigation, and more.
A criminal defense attorney at our law firm in Sugar Land will offer you legal help on your individual case. Being accused of domestic violence can damage your reputation. As your legal defense, we will do all we can to protect your integrity.
Common Defenses That a Domestic Violence Attorney in Sugar Land, TX Will Use
At The Love DuCote law firm LLC, we have helped to defend countless clients against false accusations. Our criminal defense attorneys will regularly use the following defenses to achieve favorable results for their cases:
Self-Defense
If you acted in defense of yourself or a child, your criminal defense attorney can use this to build your defense strategy. It is important to tell your attorney why you were targeted with violence in the first place.
It Was an Accident
It is possible to claim that the injury inflicted on the victim was not intentional. You must work with criminal defense attorneys to ensure that this claim matches up to the claims you made in official police reports.
The Accusation Was False
With the help of domestic violence attorneys, you may be able to claim that the accuser is lying. To do this, you must supply your attorney with appropriate evidence and have an alibi.
You may also be able to claim that the accusation was made by a family member in revenge for personal problems. It is important to work closely with your attorney because supplying evidence for this can be difficult.
Faults Were Made in the Investigation
It is not uncommon for errors to be made during a criminal investigation. A attorney will closely examine your case in search of errors. If any are found, we will be able to exploit them to create your defense strategy.
How to Act During an Arrest in Sugar Land, TX
You must remain silent. Anything you say or do following an arrest can be used against you in court. Do not retaliate, even if you are innocent and are being treated unfairly. We highly recommend that you are respectful to the police.
Remaining silent is within your constitutional rights. You will not be penalized for refusing to answer police questions. Once you contact a domestic violence defense attorney, they can advise on what to say.
4 Important Steps to Take After a Domestic Violence Arrest in Sugar Land
If you or a loved one has been arrested for domestic violence in Sugar Land, it’s crucial to act promptly and wisely. Here are the key steps to take following an arrest:
- Remain Calm and Silent:
- Do not resist arrest or argue with law enforcement. Keeping a level head can prevent the situation from escalating.
- Exercise your right to remain silent; anything you say can be used against you in court. It is vital to avoid making statements that could be misconstrued.
- Politely decline to answer questions without an attorney present. Inform the officers that you wish to speak with legal counsel first.
- Request Legal Representation:
- Ask for a domestic violence attorney as soon as possible. Securing legal representation early can greatly influence the direction of your case.
- Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney, including friends or family. Anything shared could potentially be used against you in court.
- Follow your attorney’s advice closely, especially during any initial legal proceedings. They will provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
- Document and Gather Evidence:
- Keep a record of the events leading up to your arrest, including any interactions with the accuser. This documentation can help construct a defense.
- Preserve any evidence that may support your defense, such as text messages, emails, or photos. Having clear documentation can be crucial in presenting your side of the story.
- Provide your attorney with a detailed account of the incident and any potential witnesses. This information can assist in building a robust defense strategy.
- Avoid Contact with the Accuser:
- Refrain from contacting the accuser, even if you believe it might help your case. Any communication could be interpreted negatively and complicate matters.
- Adhere strictly to any restraining or protective orders issued by the court. Violating these orders can result in further legal complications.
- Communicate only through your attorney to avoid any misunderstandings or misinterpretations of your intent.
Taking these steps seriously can help you navigate the challenging landscape of domestic violence allegations. Working closely with an experienced attorney is key to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Understanding the Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction in Sugar Land
A domestic violence conviction in Sugar Land can have severe and lasting repercussions. Individuals found guilty of domestic violence may face criminal penalties, including jail time, probation, and hefty fines. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, a conviction can lead to long-term effects on various aspects of life, including employment opportunities, housing, and personal relationships. Many employers conduct background checks, and a domestic violence conviction can significantly hinder one’s ability to secure a job or maintain current employment. Additionally, the stigma associated with such a conviction can impact personal relationships and family dynamics, making it crucial to approach the situation with a knowledgeable legal advocate by your side.
Moreover, a domestic violence conviction may result in loss of custody or visitation rights for parents, as courts prioritize the safety and well-being of children. This can lead to ongoing legal battles over child custody arrangements and limit your ability to be involved in your child’s life. Understanding these potential consequences highlights the importance of having a skilled domestic violence attorney in Sugar Land to navigate the complexities of the legal system and advocate for your rights.
The Role of a Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Experienced in Domestic Violence
Our criminal defense attorneys practice law daily. They have all attended law school and have a vast amount of experience helping clients win their cases in Sugar Land, TX.
If you become a new client of our law firm, we will assign you to an attorney best suited to your case. Your domestic violence defense attorney will gather evidence to build you a solid strategic defense strategy. At The Love DuCote Law Firm, communication is important. We like to keep our clients up to date with all case details and developments. You will be guided through all the legal proceedings.
Why You Need a Sugar Land Domestic Violence Attorney by Your Side
Hiring a domestic violence attorney in Sugar Land is essential for effectively managing your case. A knowledgeable attorney understands the local laws, procedures, and court systems, providing you with valuable insights into your legal options. They will work diligently to build a strong defense, analyze the evidence against you, and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. By having an experienced attorney on your side, you can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Additionally, a domestic violence attorney can help mitigate the emotional toll that often accompanies such cases. They can serve as a buffer between you and the court system, allowing you to focus on your personal well-being while they handle the legal complexities. Your attorney will also guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you understand your rights and responsibilities as the case unfolds.
Texas Domestic Violence FAQs
People can be accused of domestic violence for the following to a family member:
- Sexual assault.
- Battery and assault.
- Stalking.
- Child endangerment and abuse.
- Threatening.
- Aggressive behavior.
- Withholding health resources.
These accusations can be overwhelming and can ruin your life. If you have been wrongfully accused, you should not have to suffer. For some advice and guidance, you should contact a domestic violence attorney today. We can help protect your integrity.
If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you will be served with a fine. In some cases, you may also have to serve jail time. These are typically awarded to threatening or provoking contact cases.
You may be charged with a felony if you are found guilty of causing physical injury. Penalties for committing a felony include hefty fines and lengthy jail sentences.
We recommend that you always consult a reputable criminal defense lawyer before you decide to plead guilty. A lawyer can help and advise you in several ways. We can explain how you can negotiate with the state to receive a less severe punishment.
Pleading guilty can greatly impact your life. It is not a decision that should be made lightly. If you plead guilty and you are not a U.S. citizen your immigration status may be affected. There are many options available to you so don’t rush into making a decision.
It is possible to expunge a criminal record in Texas, but it’s not easy to do. There are certain qualifications you must meet if you wish to be expunged from a domestic violence charge. For example, if you were pardoned, your record could be expunged.
If you are curious to see whether your record could be expunged, you should call our law office in Sugar Land today.
Proven Results in Texas Criminal Justice System
Our domestic violence attorneys have worked on cases across the state of Texas. We have over 40 years of experience combined and have a strong understanding of the criminal justice system.
We have received many positive reviews from our clients. Our team of attorneys has achieved dismissals and not-guilty verdicts in tough and high-profile cases. You can trust that we are a reputable law firm that will do all we can to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
The Advantage of Hiring a Former Prosecutor
One of our criminal defense attorneys is a former prosecutor. This elevates our law firm compared to our competitors because we have knowledge and understanding of how the other side might tackle your case.
The previous experience and backgrounds of our attorneys can be a huge benefit to you. From pretrial hearings to the trial, we can guide you through every step of the way.
Contact Our Texas Domestic Violence Attorney in Sugar Land Today!
An attorney-client relationship at our law firm in Sugar Land, TX. is built on trust and loyalty. Our domestic violence defense attorneys are highly knowledgeable in Texas criminal law. We will do all we can to build you a strong defensive strategy.
If you have been accused of domestic violence, call our firm today to schedule a consultation. The sooner you act, the greater the chance you have of being successful. We handle cases from all counties in the Texas area, including Fort Bend County and Harris County.
Contact our law office in Sugar Land, TX at 832-843-1691.