Fulshear Domestic Violence Lawyer

Fulshear Domestic Violence Attorney

Fulshear is a great place for couples to have fun together. Whether you enjoy strolling through Exploration Park or a romantic dinner at Pier 36 Seafood & Oyster Bar, enjoying time with your partner is crucial. However, if your relationship becomes strained and you are facing domestic violence charges, a Fulshear domestic violence lawyer can review the facts of your case and offer skilled legal advice and effective legal strategies.

Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer

In Fulshear, if you are facing domestic violence charges, you need to hire a domestic violence lawyer experienced in Texas criminal defense. A Fulshear criminal defense lawyer can guide you through the process, answer questions, and mount an aggressive defense. At Segura & Kiatta, we have over 20 years of experience representing residents of Fort Bend County. Our team is experienced in negotiations and litigation to represent your interests.

Domestic Violence Prevalence

The Texas Advocacy Project has looked at rates of domestic violence and found that more than 1 in 3 women and more than 1 in 4 men in the United States have experienced some form of domestic violence in their lifetime. Acts of domestic violence can include rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner. In Texas:

• 1 in 3 Texans experience domestic violence in their lifetime.
• 1 in 4 women has been the victim of stalking.
• 1 in 13 men has been the victim of stalking.
• Women aged 16 to 24 have the highest rates of domestic violence victimization.
• Protective orders are 80% effective at preventing future violence.
• 33% of sexual assaults are committed by a current or former intimate partner.

In 2023, the Texas Council on Family Violence found that:

• 205 Texans were killed by an intimate partner.
• 179 victims were female.
• 26 victims were male.
• 142 victims were killed using a firearm.
• 64 Texas counties were impacted.
• 1 death occurred in Fort Bend County.

How a Fulshear Domestic Violence Attorney Can Help

Being accused of domestic violence is a serious charge and has potentially life-altering consequences if convicted. In addition to the possibility of a prison sentence and large fines, you may experience:

• Difficulty finding employment
• Refused housing opportunities
• Refused admission to higher education
• Unable to apply for scholarships
• Limited access to public programs
• Difficulties securing child custody
• Lose the right to own a firearm

With the severity of possible consequences, having an experienced domestic violence attorney is crucial in mounting a proper defense. In addition to advising you on your rights, an attorney can present your case on your behalf, including:

• Attend the initial hearing
• Petition for bail
• Negotiate for reduced charges
• Attend pretrial hearings
• Interview witnesses
• Review the evidence
• Review arrest footage
• Identify unlawful conduct
• Communicate with the prosecution
• Communicate with law enforcement
• Negotiate for a plea agreement
• Present your case to a judge and jury

Once an accusation of domestic violence has been made, the alleged victim cannot drop the accusation. In Texas, only the prosecution can decide if a case moves forward. You must remain calm and cooperative when faced with domestic violence allegations. Prosecutors may review police bodycam footage of the arrest and interviews taken at the scene. Being accused is highly emotional, but acting combative or argumentative only hurts your case.

Once you are released from custody, it is important to have no contact with the alleged victim, especially if you have been court-ordered to stay away. It is important to present evidence that supports your version of the incident. Document everything related to the incident, including:

• Injuries sustained
• Text exchanges
• Social media posts
• Photos or videos of the incident

FAQs

How Is Domestic Violence Defined in Texas?

The Texas Penal Code refers to domestic violence as family violence and includes actions committed by one family or household member against another. It includes any actions intended to cause harm, injury, assault, or sexual assault, and threats of violence that create an imminent fear of harm, injury, assault, or sexual assault. Dating violence is also included, which encompasses couples in a romantic or intimate relationship.

What Type of Lawyer Do I Need for a Domestic Violence Charge?

If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, you need a criminal defense attorney to review your charges and determine an appropriate defense. Unlike other types of criminal charges, domestic violence accusations can have negative effects on your personal and professional life, even if you are acquitted or the charges are dismissed. An experienced criminal defense attorney has thorough knowledge of domestic violence laws.

How Much Does a Lawyer Charge for a Domestic Violence Case?

How much a lawyer charges for a domestic violence case depends on several factors. If you are being charged with a misdemeanor versus a felony, how complex the case is, and whether your case goes to trial. Some criminal defense attorneys may operate using a flat rate for their services, while others may bill by the hour. These charges are often higher for experienced lawyers. You may also be required to pay a retainer fee before any work is completed.

What Are the Rights of a Domestic Partner in Texas?

Unlike other states, Texas does not automatically recognize domestic partnerships for couples who have cohabitated for a predetermined length of time. Instead, Texas allows individuals who live together to choose to enter into a domestic partnership through the creation of a cohabitation agreement.

There are no standard agreements, leaving couples to create an agreement that suits their unique situation. Couples who choose to create a cohabitation agreement can still be charged with domestic violence under the Texas Family Code.

Possible Defenses for a Domestic Violence Charge in Texas?

The specific characteristics of your case determine which defense strategy is most appropriate, but there are some common defenses to domestic violence charges. The most common defenses include:

• The criminal act was self-defense
• The allegations are false
• There is a lack of evidence
• The harm caused was accidental
• Violation of civil rights

Contact A Fulshear Domestic Violence Lawyer Segura & Kiatta

Don’t face domestic violence charges alone. Just being charged with domestic violence can harm your personal and professional image. At Segura & Kiatta, we understand the intricacies of domestic violence laws and how charges can impact your life. Contact us now for a confidential consultation.