Bellaire Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Experienced Domestic Violence Defense Attorney in Bellaire, TX

Domestic violence penalties are severe in Texas, which is why it is recommended that you contact a Bellaire criminal defense lawyer as soon as you’re charged in Harris County. Despite the state’s harsh laws, there are many possible domestic violence defense strategies to explore. A Bellaire domestic violence defense lawyer from Segura & Kiatta can help you form a solid strategy based on the facts of your case.

Beyond strategizing, our Bellaire criminal defense lawyer can protect your freedoms and represent you in and out of the courtroom. No matter how complicated matters get, we are prepared to get you through it.

Domestic Violence Crimes in Bellaire

Domestic violence refers to acts against family or household members that result in harm or injury. This includes violent assault, sexual assault, and threats that cause someone to fear imminent harm or injury. It is also referred to as family violence under Texas law. Domestic violence is defined under Texas Family Code, Chapter 71.004, as occurring between family or household members. Examples of domestic violence victims are listed below:

• Children related to the offender
• Other minors living in the house
• Parents
• Romantic partners
• Roommates
• Sexual partners

It is estimated that one in three people in Texas experiences situations of domestic violence in their lifetime. In 2023, the Texas Council on Family Violence reported 205 fatalities due to violence from an intimate partner.

Domestic violence can also lead to serious injury and other harm to the victim and the family as a whole. Moreover, these crimes affect the entire family. Recent reports reveal that around 15.5 million children across the nation have witnessed or experienced violence in the home.

For this reason, Texas law prosecutes domestic violence crimes harshly. You can expect to face serious consequences if convicted. It is highly recommended that you hire a domestic violence defense lawyer to help you with your case.

About Our Bellaire Domestic Violence Attorneys

Texas domestic violence penalties and sentencing guidelines are some of the most severe in the country. If you are facing criminal charges, it is wise to secure representation from a local law firm that has experience navigating the Texas criminal justice system.

For over 20 years, Segura & Kiatta has been serving clients throughout Fort Bend and Harris Counties. Our attorneys can represent individuals facing charges in every district court, providing aggressive advocacy and compassionate representation through every stage of the process.

Our team comprises attorneys who are board-certified in criminal law with the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and peer-rated as AV-Preeminent on the Martindale-Hubbell Directory. We were also named as Houston’s Top Lawyers and have received other honors, as well.

Whether you’re navigating misdemeanor charges through the Harris County Criminal Courts at Law, where the YouTube-famous Judge Fleischer presides on the 9th floor of the Criminal Justice Center at 1201 Franklin Street, or felonies at the Harris County District Court on San Jacinto, you can count on our team to be there to help you reach a resolution.

FAQs

What Domestic Violence Penalties Can I Face in Bellaire?

Domestic violence penalties you can face in Bellaire ultimately depend on the facts of the case against you. Domestic violence is a specific type of assault charge under Texas law. A simple assault charge is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.

Aggravated assault is a first- or second-degree felony. When an act of family violence is continuous, it is typically charged as a third-degree felony. This pertains to cases with incidents occurring more than once over a 12-month period.

Can a Domestic Violence Charge in Bellaire Be Dismissed or Dropped?

Yes, a domestic violence charge in Bellaire can be dismissed or dropped, but it can be challenging to achieve this outcome. This is especially true in Texas due to the “no-drop” policy. This rule essentially makes it so that prosecutors decide whether or not to pursue charges.

This happens with or without the victim’s consent. As the one being charged, this makes it much harder to avoid conviction. A domestic violence defense lawyer can help with your legal strategy.

Do Domestic Violence Charges Affect Parental Rights in Bellaire?

Yes, domestic violence charges can affect parental rights in Bellaire. This includes their accession, possession, and conservatorship over a child. Texas family courts ultimately make decisions based on the child’s best interest.

You can expect them to factor domestic violence charges into a custody order. In fact, the Texas Family Code specifically authorizes state courts to consider acts of abuse when creating or approving custody orders.

What Defenses Can I Use Against a Domestic Violence Charge in Bellaire?

Defenses you can use against a domestic violence charge in Bellaire depend on the details of the case against you. The most common defense utilized in domestic violence cases is self-defense or the defense of others. Other defenses your Bellaire domestic violence defense attorney may explore include lack of intent or a violation of constitutional rights. Insufficient evidence and the unintentional commission of a crime are also commonly cited.

Hire a Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Bellaire to Help with Your Defense

If you’re facing potential domestic violence penalties under Texas law, it’s imperative that you act quickly to start building your defense and moving through the proper steps of the legal process. Fortunately, you don’t have to do everything on your own. In fact, it’s highly recommended that you work with a criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and optimize your defense strategy.

Our team at Segura & Kiatta brings over two decades of combined criminal defense experience to the table. We understand Texas domestic violence laws, and we’re committed to protecting our clients’ freedoms throughout tough criminal cases.

If you’re ready to discuss your situation in more detail, our team is prepared to assist you. Set up a consultation to start forming your defense strategy. Our office is in Sugar Land on Commerce Green Boulevard. You can find us near I-69 and U.S. Route 90 Alternate, making us a convenient stop no matter where you’re located throughout Harris County.