Sugar Land Assault Lawyer

Sugar Land Assault Attorney

Facing assault charges in Texas can be a frightening and difficult situation to be in, with even false allegations and minor convictions having a lasting impact on your future. If you have been accused of violence, a Sugar Land assault lawyer can help you through the proceedings and explore potential legal options you may have going forward.

Our Background

At Segura and Kiatta, LLP, we’ve spent years assisting the people of Southeast Texas in their assault cases. Our Sugar Land criminal defense lawyers, Anthony R. Segura and David Kiatta, have combined experience of over five decades defending clients. Our team has handled thousands of charges, ranging from simple assault to murder. We can make a positive difference in your case.

Overview of Sugar Land Assault Cases

Assault is a serious offense in Texas. The national average assault rate is 282.7 instances per 100,000 people. Sugar Land has a much lower median, at only 43.2 per 100,000. This may make law enforcement and the prosecution inclined to treat assault cases in town more severely than in other regions of the country.

The court where assault cases are dealt with depends on the severity of the accusations. Misdemeanor charges that occur within city limits are handled at Sugar Land Municipal Court, located at 1200 Highway 6, Sugar Land, TX. Felony and other assault instances with aggravating factors are processed through the Fort Bend Justice Center, located at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle in Richmond, TX.

What Are the Assault Laws in Texas?

Assault in Texas is defined as the attempt, threat, or use of violence against another person. It is established by the state if they can prove the defendant intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly committed one of the following three actions:

• Caused bodily harm to another person
• Threatened to inflict bodily harm on another
• Caused physical contact with another person that is reasonably seen as offensive or provocative

If any of these three are recognized in court as having occurred, with no other contributing factors, it is considered a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of no more than $4,000.

Simple assault cases may be escalated to a higher charge if the alleged victim is a public servant carrying out their official duty, someone the defendant has a personal relationship with, such as a romantic partner or relative, or if the assault is in retaliation against a government employee doing their job. In these instances, assault can be treated as a third-degree felony with potential penalties of 2 to 10 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $10,000.

Aggravated assault is a heightened form of an assault charge. It occurs when the requirements for assault happen in addition to the use or exhibition of a deadly weapon, or if serious bodily injury was caused.

Hire an Assault Lawyer

All types of assault cases, whether simple or aggravated, can carry with them lasting consequences that can change the trajectory of your life. It is highly recommended that you hire an assault lawyer. Your Sugar Land assault attorney can advocate for you at every stage of your case, from initial meetings with police to deciding on a defense and representing you in all court hearings.

A Sugar Land assault lawyer from Segura and Kiatta, LLP, can fight for you both in and out of court. If your case outlook seems poor, we can negotiate a plea bargain that works for you, reducing prison time, fines, and severity of conviction.

FAQs

How Much Does a Sugar Land Assault Attorney Cost?

How much your Sugar Land assault attorney costs depends on the severity of accusations against you, the complexity of your case, and the work hours it requires. A simple assault case between two parties and no additional factors tends to be cheaper than an aggravated assault with multiple alleged victims who are public servants. Another aspect that affects the price is the billing structure, with different lawyers using hourly rates, retainer expenses, or flat fees.

Can You Fight Back if Someone Attacks You in Texas?

In Texas, you can fight back if someone attacks you, and self-defense can be a valid legal argument against an assault charge. The severity of how you respond to an attack can dictate how the courts view your actions. If you are punched and you fight back enough to get to safety, it can be viewed as self-defense. However, if you respond to simple assault by causing serious bodily harm or using deadly force, it can be more difficult to justify your actions.

How Long Does an Assault Case Take in Texas?

How long your Texas assault case takes is based on the crime you are charged with, the complications involved in the case, and the workload of the court system. A simple assault case with minor injuries or threats and a plea bargain may take much less time than an aggravated assault case with multiple alleged victims and a trial.

What Kind of Evidence Is Used in Texas Assault Cases?

The police and prosecution may utilize a wide range of evidence in a Texas assault case. Physical evidence can be key in some cases, including elements such as medical reports of injuries, weapons used, and property damage. Witnesses of an event or videos are also commonly used in assault cases. There is also the testimony of the alleged victim and the defendant. The state will use whatever evidence it can to show that an assault occurred.

Speak With a Sugar Land Assault Attorney Today

At Segura and Kiatta, LLP, we know that being accused of a crime doesn’t define who you are. We have the knowledge and experience that can make a positive difference in your case. Our team can fight to mitigate any impact a charge or conviction may have on your life.

Contact us today for a consultation, where we can discuss the details of your assault case and explore your legal options. You may also visit our Sugar Land office, located on Commerce Green Boulevard between Highway 90 Alternative and Southwest Freeway.