Being charged with a domestic violence case in the state of Texas is the most serious misdemeanor offense on the books. If you’ve had a prior conviction for family violence, or the current allegations include strangulation, the charges are automatically upgraded to a third-degree felony. A conviction can lead not only to substantial jail or even prison time but also a loss of many of your modern-day rights that many of us take for granted.
When you’re charged with a domestic violence offense in Travis County, we have only one goal, and that is to prevent you from being convicted. Once hired, we immediately begin our own investigation into the facts of the case.
Many times, police officers rush to judgment and do not conduct a thorough investigation, simply arresting someone to prevent any further escalation later in the evening. As an experienced domestic violence lawyer, we will look at all of the angles of the case, to make sure our clients are given the best chance possible
If you’ve been charged with this offense, contact Austin domestic violence attorney James Gill today for a free legal consultation.
Who Does an Austin Domestic Violence Lawyer Defend?
As a domestic violence attorney in Austin, Texas, with 20 years of experience, I’ve handled hundreds of these cases with the vast majority resulting in successful outcomes. Don’t make any decisions about your chance of success in the case, and don’t answer any questions from law-enforcement—contact my office first.
A domestic violence lawyer must know and understand their client whether it be male, female, spouse, an ex-spouse or partner, or simply a couple in a dating relationship. You need an Austin lawyer who can and will understand the intricacies of every relationship.
Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction in Austin, TX
Collateral consequences of being convicted of domestic violence can include not being able to rent an apartment, not being able to find employment, being terminated from current employment, and never being allowed to own guns or ammunition again. The following are some of the major consequences that can result from a guilty charge of domestic violence.
Future Employment
The consequences of a domestic violence conviction or a family violence finding have repercussions that will last a lifetime. Future employers often run background checks before hiring any candidate, and many companies will not hire someone with an assault family violence conviction on the record.
Restraining Orders
If you are charged with a domestic violence situation, it’s possible that either the complaining party or Magistrate may issue a protective order on your case. Violations of a protective order can result in additional criminal charges, and often strengthen the state’s case with regard to the underlying assault charge.
Jail Time and Monetary Fines
If convicted of domestic violence in Travis County, you can face serious jail time and monetary fines. The classification of the charge can result in the following fines and time served as follows:
- First Degree Felony: Five to 99 years in prison or life, and a fine up to $10,000
- Second Degree Felony: Two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
- Third Degree Felony: Two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
- State Jail Felony: 180 days to two years in state jail and a fine up to $10,000
- Class A Misdemeanor: Jail for up to a year and a fine up to $4,000
- Class B Misdemeanor: Jail for up to 180 days and a fine up to $2,000
- Class C Misdemeanor: Fine up to $500
How Can an Austin Domestic Violence Lawyer Help My Case?
If you are found guilty (or plead guilty) to an assault case with family violence, it is a permanent stain on your record and cannot be removed except by pardon from the governor. In over 20 years of being an Austin domestic violence lawyer, I am unfamiliar with any pardon being granted by the governor of the state of Texas with respect to any assault family violence charge.
Are You Facing Family or Domestic Violence Charges in Austin?
Austin domestic violence lawyer James Gill stands up for his clients and fights for the best possible outcome. With hundreds of cases successfully negotiated to dismissal and multiple not guilty verdicts on assault cases, you can be sure you’re contacting an experienced domestic violence attorney who is serious about getting the best results. Call (512) 448-4560 today, or contact us using our online form to book a consultation regarding your case.