What’s the Big Deal, Isn’t a Crime a Crime? Not all crimes are created equal. Not only are they punished differently, some expose you to a fine, some to either a fine or time in the county jail, or both, while others require a fine, prison, or both, they also carry different “collateral” consequences. In Read more about Understanding Misdemeanors and Felonies in the State of Texas
What Qualifies as “Assault” in Texas?
Assault. That single word receives a lot of attention week in and week out, not just by law enforcement, lawyers, and judges, but with ever increasing frequency, in the sports world. Texas criminal courts – be mindful that the definition used in civil cases is a bit different – defines assault as the intentional or Read more about What Qualifies as “Assault” in Texas?
Assault Causes Bodily Injury – Family Violence
Unlike Assault Impeding Breath or Circulation – Family Violence, Assault Causing Bodily Injury – Family Violence is usually classified as a Class A Misdemeanor. I say usually because if you were previously convicted of Assault Causing Bodily Injury – Family Violence, even if that conviction was twenty years ago, a second offense is considered a Read more about Assault Causes Bodily Injury – Family Violence
Domestic Violence/Family Violence
Texas does not use the terms “Domestic Violence” or “Domestic Assault” in the Penal Code, or in the Code of Criminal Procedure. Rather, Texas relies upon its normal definitions of assault, and then adds the language “Family Violence” if there are some additional factors, such as a present or past dating relationship, marital relationship, or Read more about Domestic Violence/Family Violence
Elderly Assault
Injury cases where the “victim” is a child, elderly individual, or a disabled individual are treated a bit differently than simple assault cases. There are a number of subtle nuances which impact the severity of the allegation, and provide possible defenses, of an elderly assault case. Obviously, reasonable discipline is not going to be prosecuted; Read more about Elderly Assault