El Paso Assault Defense Lawyer Protecting Your Rights And Future
Assault charges threaten your freedom, reputation and future opportunities. When you face assault accusations in Texas, you must respond quickly to give yourself a solid chance of defending your good name and clean record.
At Lozano Meza Law Firm, you have the opportunity to work with our accomplished criminal defense attorneys, Eric Meza and Cesar Lozano. With more than 15 years of practicing criminal law in El Paso and clients statewide as assault defense lawyers, we are dedicated to applying our knowledge and skills to help clients protect their future.
What Is The Difference Between Simple Assault And Assault By Contact?
Texas law recognizes different levels of assault with varying penalties. Simple assault occurs when someone intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury to another person, threatens another with imminent bodily injury or causes physical contact that the person reasonably regards as offensive or provocative. This is typically a Class A misdemeanor carrying up to one year in jail and fines up to $4,000.
Assault by contact represents the least serious assault charge, involving offensive or provocative physical contact without causing injury. This is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $500. However, even this charge creates a criminal record that can affect your future.
When Does Assault Become A Third-Degree Felony In Texas?
Assault charges escalate to felony level based on specific circumstances. Assault becomes a third-degree felony when committed against certain protected individuals including family members, public servants, security officers or emergency services personnel. Third-degree felonies carry two to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Assault also elevates to felony charges when committed against someone in a dating relationship if the defendant has prior assault convictions.
What Is Aggravated Assault?
Aggravated assault represents the most serious assault charge under Texas law. This occurs when someone causes serious bodily injury to another person or uses or displays a deadly weapon during an assault. Aggravated assault is typically a second-degree felony carrying two to 20 years in prison, though it can escalate to a first-degree felony under certain circumstances such as domestic violence situations or assaults against public servants.
Contact Our El Paso Criminal Defense Attorneys
Calling us may be the most important decision of your life. Initial consultations are free at our law firm for people charged with crimes. Call us in El Paso at 915-706-2111 or send an email inquiry through our online contact form for a prompt response.