Houston Aggravated Assault Attorneys

When a person is charged with aggravated assault, it can come with many assumptions about the person’s character and actions. However, it is not always as straightforward as it may seem. At Haddad & Timmons PLLC, we know that people make mistakes when talking to police and that misunderstandings happen during the stress of a police encounter. Our Houston aggravated assault attorneys can help you advocate for your rights and future. We also know that when prosecutors file charges for violent crimes in Harris County, there’s a lot to lose.

About Haddad & Timmons PLLC

Haddad & Timmons PLLC is a Houston criminal defense law firm that focuses on guiding people through their toughest moments. Our firm was built by former prosecutors and trial lawyers who know how assault cases are investigated, prosecuted, and defended in Texas. We know these accusations are often more than they seem. Many cases involve strong emotions, claims of self-defense, conflicting accounts from witnesses, and a lack of complete evidence.

When you work with our firm, you can expect us to treat you with compassion and respect. We can work closely with you and your family to understand your side of the story. Subsequently, we can pursue a determined and courageous defense of your rights in court.

If Things Go Bad, Call Haddad & Timmons.

Former Prosecutors. Proven Defenders. Fighting for Your Future.

schedule a consultation

Understanding Aggravated Assault in Houston

Many aggravated assault cases are handled at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center, where felony cases are heard in Harris County. This court is located on Franklin Street in Houston. Texas law classifies aggravated assault as a more severe type of assault. Assault can be aggravated if someone sustains serious bodily injury or if a deadly weapon is used during the commission of the crime. Assault charges can result from the types of acts listed below:

• Domestic disputes
• Bar fights
• Mutual fights or arguments
• Road rage
• Altercations at events or high-energy places, such as sporting events or nightclubs

Prosecutors can file aggravated assault charges even if the alleged victim wasn’t placed in danger of serious injury. Aggravated assault can happen for many reasons. Some assaults are intentional, and others are the result of misunderstandings or fights that get out of control.

Texas Assault Laws

Texas has some of the strictest laws on violent crimes, like assault. In Harris County, prosecutors often seek maximum aggravated assault penalties, especially when an assault involves a weapon.

Texas Penal Code § 22.01 addresses assault. Prosecutors can file assault charges based on this law alone. Then, they may enhance the charge to aggravated assault depending on injuries or if they believe a weapon was used during the altercation.

Texas Penal Code § 22.02 is the law used to charge most aggravated assault cases in Texas. This law explains the elements that must be present for an assault to be upgraded to an aggravated charge. It also outlines different felony charges for aggravated assault. Penalties for aggravated assault in Texas are listed below:

• Two years to life in prison (based on the degree of the felony)
• Up to $10,000 in fines
• Loss of the right to own or carry a firearm
• Immigration consequences if you are not a United States citizen
• Protective orders limiting your freedom

Texas prosecutors can also seek enhanced or increased penalties if the assault case involves repeat offenses. Previous convictions, domestic violence, and endangerment of a child may change how prosecutors approach a case. The violent crime rate in Houston, TX, is 5.059 per 1,000 residents. The assault rate is 3.432, including aggravated assault. Assault costs the city about $749.2 million per year. As a result, prosecutors are tough on these cases.

If you’re convicted of assault, you may also find it difficult to obtain work or housing with a record. It’s important to meet with a Houston aggravated assault lawyer to work on a potential defense strategy that can reduce the penalties for your case.

Difference Between Assault and Aggravated Assault

Assault and aggravated assault charges are two distinct offenses under Texas law, and the penalties of the two are vastly different. Assault can take several forms, but most instances of assault require a person to cause bodily injury to someone else, threaten someone with bodily harm, or make unwanted physical contact. An assault charge can be raised from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Aggravated assault is typically much more serious than a standard assault charge. So, while a fist fight that resulted in minor injuries could constitute an assault charge, if someone is accused of using a gun or knife during the fight or causing serious injuries, they could be faced with aggravated assault charges.

As aggravated assault is usually charged as a felony in the state of Texas, the penalties for conviction include significantly longer prison sentences, larger fines, and a criminal history that has lifelong effects on employment and housing prospects.

Defenses to Aggravated Assault Charges

Like every crime, each aggravated assault case is unique. Sometimes the facts of an arrest mean more than the allegations. Perhaps someone assaulted another individual in self-defense or while trying to protect someone else during a violent crime. Texas residents have the right to protect themselves if they feel threatened, but this needs to be argued in court. Common defenses in these cases are listed below:

• Self-defense
• Mistaken identity
• False accusations
• Lack of evidence

Prosecutors in Houston need to prove every element of an aggravated assault charge beyond a reasonable doubt. When evidence does not add up or is left uncovered, it can become a crucial part of the defense.

Hire an Aggravated Assault Attorney Right Away

Many individuals choose to hire an aggravated assault attorney because they understand the severity of the situation. Facing a felony charge can impact your future job opportunities, professional licenses, housing options, and relationships years after your case is over.

The criminal justice process can also be overwhelming. Felony charges in Harris County can include bond conditions, numerous court appearances, meetings with prosecutors, and the need to review large amounts of evidence. If your case is being prosecuted in the Harris County Criminal Courts at Law, you can expect several hearings before your case concludes.

When you have an experienced Houston aggravated assault lawyer by your side, you have a better chance of mitigating your charges and penalties. Regardless of how it happened, the well-versed and skillful Houston aggravated assault lawyers at Haddad & Timmons PLLC have the resources and experience to help you understand the charges against you and build a strong case in your defense.

Contact Haddad & Timmons PLLC

If you have been charged with aggravated assault, Haddad & Timmons PLLC can help you advocate for your rights and your future well-being. We understand aggravated assault laws and know how serious these accusations are. Contact us today for more information.