Trusted Domestic Violence Attorney in Houston, TX

Types of Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence charges in Texas can involve various types of offenses, including:

1. Assault: This can involve causing bodily harm or the threat of harm to a family member, spouse, or someone you have an intimate relationship with. Even the mere threat of violence can result in charges.

2. Sexual Assault: This occurs when there is non-consensual sexual contact between partners or family members.

3. Child Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse of a child within the home can lead to domestic violence charges and other penalties such as loss of parental rights.

4. Stalking: Involves repeated, unwanted contact or behavior that causes the victim to fear for their safety. This can include phone calls, following the person, or unwanted visits to their home or workplace.

A domestic violence conviction can result in severe consequences, both in the short term and long term, affecting your freedom, family relationships, and future employment.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

A domestic violence conviction in Texas carries serious penalties, and even an accusation can lead to immediate consequences, such as restraining orders and temporary loss of child custody. If convicted, the penalties can include:

1. Fines: Fines for domestic violence offenses can range from $500 for a misdemeanor assault charge to $10,000 for a felony conviction.

2. Imprisonment: Jail or prison time is common for domestic violence convictions, particularly if the charges involve aggravated assault or repeat offenses. Misdemeanor convictions can result in up to one year in jail, while felony convictions carry much longer sentences.

3. Protective Orders: A protective order or restraining order may be issued against you, limiting your contact with the alleged victim and sometimes even preventing you from returning to your own home.

4. Loss of Child Custody: In cases involving domestic violence, the court may modify or revoke your custody or visitation rights. A conviction can also impact future custody decisions, even if the offense was not directly related to the child.

5. Loss of Rights: A felony domestic violence conviction may result in the loss of your right to own firearms, vote, or hold certain professional licenses. These consequences can have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life.

Given the high stakes of domestic violence cases, it is essential to have a knowledgeable attorney who can fight for your rights and present a strong defense.

Building Your Domestic Violence Defense

At Arnold Lopez Attorney At Law, we understand the complexities of domestic violence cases and are committed to providing our clients with the aggressive representation they need. Domestic violence cases are often highly emotional and involve conflicting testimony from both parties. We will thoroughly investigate the details of your case, challenge false accusations, and work to have the charges reduced or dismissed.

Some common defenses against domestic violence charges include:

1. False Allegations: In some cases, domestic violence allegations may be false or exaggerated, often as a result of a contentious divorce or child custody dispute. We will gather evidence to expose inconsistencies in the accuser’s story and prove that you were falsely accused.

2. Self-Defense: If you were acting in self-defense or defending someone else from harm, we will present evidence to show that you were not the aggressor and that your actions were justified.

3. Lack of Evidence: Domestic violence cases often rely heavily on the testimony of the alleged victim. If there is little or no physical evidence to support the claim, we can challenge the prosecution’s case and argue for a dismissal.

In addition to these defenses, we may also work to negotiate alternative sentencing options, such as anger management classes or probation, to help you avoid jail time and protect your future.

Contact Arnold Lopez Attorney At Law for Domestic Violence Defense

If you have been charged with domestic violence in Houston, TX, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Arnold Lopez Attorney At Law is here to provide a strong defense and protect your rights.

Call us at 713-695-2000 or visit arnoldlopez.net to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate this difficult time and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.