Houston Domestic Violence Charges

There isn’t a relationship in the world that doesn’t have its ups and downs. Couples fight. It is bound to happen. However, arguments become an issue when they turn physical. Domestic violence is a problem across the country and Houston is no different. But, not every person accused of or facing domestic violence charges actually committed such an offense. Let’s take a look at the domestic violence laws in Texas and the charges associated with the laws.

Domestic Violence Charges and Laws in Houston

For starters, the prosecutor assigned to your case needs to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you acted knowingly or intentionally. If an injury did occur to the victim, the prosecutor could use evidence to show that your actions were indeed reckless and therefore resulted in the aforementioned injury to the victim.

Application of the Laws

The domestic violence laws in Texas apply to all of the following people and circumstances:

• Spouses
• People residing in the same house
• People related to each other by affinity or blood
• Foster children and foster parents
• People involved in dating relationships

Defenses to Domestic Violence

If you are facing a domestic violence charge in Texas, you can use the following defenses to fight your case and secure your freedom:

• You acted in self-defense
• No offense actually took place
• The offense was a mistake or was unintentional
• There was a lack of knowledge

Domestic Violence Penalties

The penalties you could face if convicted with domestic violence in Houston include the following:

• Class C misdemeanor: no more than one year in prison and a monetary fine
• 1st-degree felony: five to 99 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000

The factors used to determine the type of penalty issued in such a case include the relationship of the defendant to the victim, any past convictions for the defendant involving domestic violence, and if strangulation or suffocation was involved in the offense.

Contact an experienced domestic violence defense lawyer in Houston today to discuss the charges levied against you and how you can protect your rights.