Aggravated Assault Defense Lawyer in Houston

Providing Clients With Aggressive Legal Representation

Facing aggravated assault charges in Texas is a serious matter that requires immediate legal action. Texas enforces severe penalties for those convicted of aggravated assault, as it is classified as a violent felony. If found guilty, you could face extensive prison time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. A conviction can also create significant challenges in your life, such as difficulties enlisting in the military, attending college, pursuing certain careers, or legally owning firearms.

Aggravated assault charges demand a strong and strategic defense. At Drehner Law, we understand the gravity of these charges and the impact they can have on your future. Our legal team is prepared to investigate the circumstances of your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and advocate for your rights at every step. Don’t wait to seek legal help.

Contact Drehner Law of Houston, TX, and ask to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case with a Houston aggravated assault attorney.

What is the Difference Between Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault?

In Texas, the law clearly distinguishes between simple assault and aggravated assault. While both are serious offenses, the nature of the actions involved and the severity of the consequences differ significantly.

What Constitutes Simple Assault?

A person commits simple assault if they intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause physical harm to another individual. Even minor injuries can result in a simple assault charge. Simple assault also extends to:

• Offensive Contact: Any unwanted physical contact that causes discomfort or offense, even if it does not result in bodily injury.
• Verbal Threats: Threatening someone with harm, even if no physical contact occurs, can also lead to a simple assault charge.

What Constitutes Aggravated Assault?

Aggravated assault involves more severe actions and consequences. A charge of aggravated assault typically arises when:

• Serious Bodily Injury Occurs: The victim sustains significant harm, such as broken bones, disfigurement, or injuries requiring extensive medical treatment.
• A Deadly Weapon is Used or Displayed: The use or even the threat of using a deadly weapon, such as a firearm or knife, elevates the offense to aggravated assault, even if the weapon is not discharged or used directly against the victim.

Under Texas law, a person must first commit actions that qualify as simple assault before those actions can be classified as aggravated assault. The presence of serious injury or the involvement of a deadly weapon escalates the charge and the associated penalties.

Why the Difference Matters

The distinction between simple and aggravated assault is critical because the penalties for aggravated assault are significantly harsher. A conviction can lead to lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and a lasting impact on your personal and professional life.

If you have questions about the differences between these charges or are facing accusations of assault, contact Drehner Law at our Houston office. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, learn more about your legal options, and start building your defense.

What Are the Criminal Penalties for Aggravated Assault?

If you have been arrested and charged with aggravated assault, it is crucial to take immediate action to safeguard your rights and future. Texas imposes strict criminal penalties for aggravated assault, as it is classified as a violent felony. A conviction can have far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond fines and prison time. The repercussions of a conviction can make it difficult to achieve personal and professional goals. Individuals may face barriers when attempting to:

• Enlist in the military due to disqualifying criminal history.
• Attend higher learning institutions that review applicants’ legal records.
• Legally own or possess firearms, as federal and state laws impose strict restrictions on convicted felons.

Hiring a Houston aggravated assault lawyer as soon as possible can provide the legal defense you need to challenge these charges. Your attorney will examine the details of your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and build a strategic defense. Whether negotiating reduced charges or representing you in court, an experienced defense lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Do not wait to take action. Contact Drehner Law today to discuss your case with a dedicated criminal defense attorney. Together, we will work to protect your rights, defend your future, and pursue the best possible outcome for your aggravated assault case.

Are There Any Defenses to Aggravated Assault?

If you have been accused of aggravated assault, there may be several possible legal defenses that your aggravated assault lawyer may be able to use to try and have your charges reduced or dismissed.

Some common defenses to aggravated assault include:

• Self-defense: If the defendant can demonstrate they acted in self-defense, they may be able to have their charges thrown out.
• Lack of intent: The defendant contends they did not intend to cause the victim harm.
• Mistaken identity: The defendant can prove they were not the individual who committed the aggravated assault.
• Defense of a third party: The defendant committed the aggravated assault to protect a third party from harm. However, the defense must prove that the third party faced an immediate threat and there was a reasonable belief that the defendant needed to take action. Finally, the defendant’s actions were reasonable to the third party’s threat.

Even though there are several legal defenses that Texas accepts in aggravated assault cases, defendants should never try to handle their own defense cases. The criminal justice system can be overly complex and confusing for individuals who lack legal training.

Instead, hiring a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney is always best to determine which legal strategy is appropriate for the case. Drehner Law of Houston, TX, has comprehensive experience in developing innovative legal strategies for aggravated assault cases and would be honored to assist you with your case.

Why Choose Drehner Law for Your Aggravated Assault Defense?

When facing aggravated assault charges, selecting the right legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At Drehner Law, we prioritize protecting your rights and ensuring you have a strong defense throughout the legal process. Here’s what sets our firm apart when defending against violent crime charges:

• Personalized Defense Strategies: We carefully analyze every aspect of your case, from the circumstances of your arrest to the evidence presented by the prosecution. Our goal is to develop a defense tailored to your unique situation.
• Thorough Investigation: We dig into the details of the incident, interviewing witnesses, reviewing law enforcement procedures, and examining evidence to identify inconsistencies or violations of your rights.
• Focused on Your Future: We understand how a conviction can affect your life, including employment opportunities, personal relationships, and civil liberties. Our legal team works to minimize the impact of the charges and help you move forward with confidence.
• Experienced Courtroom Advocacy: Whether negotiating plea deals or presenting your case before a judge and jury, we approach each step with determination and skill to fight for the best possible outcome.

Facing aggravated assault charges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Drehner Law today to schedule a consultation, and let us start building your defense.

Contact a Houston aggravated assault attorney from Drehner Law at 832-626-0063 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.