Yes, assault charges can be dropped under certain circumstances. Reasons may include lack of evidence, self-defense, or the alleged victim’s unwillingness to participate in prosecution. Our criminal defense attorneys work to identify grounds for dismissal in every assault case.
Call Us (512) 476-2494
Assault Defense Attorney in Austin TX
Expert Legal Representation for Assault Charges
If you face assault charges in Austin, TX, you need lawyers for assault charges who understand Texas law. At Gunter, Bennett & Anthes, our legal team provides skilled representation for all types of assault cases.
From simple assault to aggravated assault, our criminal defense lawyers have the knowledge and experience to protect your rights.
Understanding Assault Charges in Texas
Assault charges in Texas range from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. Texas assault laws define assault as:
Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person
Intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another when the person knows the contact will be offensive
Intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury
Our Austin assault defense attorneys help clients understand the specific charges they face and develop a strong defense strategy based on the facts of each case.
Types of Assault Charges We Handle
Simple Assault
Simple assault often falls under a Class C misdemeanor in Texas. This typically involves causing physical contact with another person that they find offensive or provocative. Even without visible injuries, you can face simple assault charges if the alleged victim felt threatened or offended by the physical contact. Our law firm regularly defends clients against simple assault charges.
Misdemeanor Assault
A Class A misdemeanor assault charge happens when someone causes bodily injury to another person. “Bodily injury” under Texas law means physical pain. For example, if you push someone and they feel pain (even without visible marks), you could face a misdemeanor assault charge carrying penalties of up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000.
Our defense lawyers understand how to challenge misdemeanor assault charges by examining evidence, witness statements, and potential self-defense claims. Bodily injury assault cases require careful analysis of medical evidence.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault occurs when:
The assault causes serious bodily injury, or A deadly weapon is used during the assault
Aggravated assault is typically charged as a second-degree felony in Texas, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison. If the aggravated assault targets family members, law enforcement officers, or other specific circumstances, the charges may increase to a first-degree felony.
Our criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience defending against aggravated assault charges in Austin TX. We analyze every aspect of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments.
Family Violence Assault
Family violence assault (domestic violence) involves assault against family members, household members, or current/former romantic partners. These cases often carry enhanced penalties and additional consequences, including protective orders and mandatory counseling.
At Gunter, Bennett & Anthes, we recognize the sensitive nature of family violence allegations and work to protect both your legal rights and personal relationships. Our Austin criminal defense lawyers understand the unique challenges of these cases.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault charges require specialized defense strategies. Our defense attorneys understand the complex legal issues involved in sexual assault cases and provide discreet, effective legal representation. We investigate every aspect of sexual assault allegations, including consent issues, credibility of witnesses, and potential motives for false accusations.
Aggravated Sexual Assault
Aggravated sexual assault involves sexual assault plus aggravating factors such as:
Use of a deadly weapon
Causing serious bodily injury
Threatening death or serious bodily harm
Using drugs to prevent resistance
These charges carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Our criminal defense team has the experience and knowledge to defend against these serious allegations.
Potential Consequences of an Assault Conviction
The penalties for an assault conviction in Austin TX depend on the specific criminal charges:
Class C Misdemeanor Simple Assault: Fines up to $500
Class A Misdemeanor Assault: Up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000
Third-Degree Felony Assault: 2-10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000
Second-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault: 2-20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000
First-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault: 5-99 years in prison and fines up to $10,000
Beyond jail time and fines, a criminal conviction creates a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys work to minimize these consequences through aggressive legal representation.
Arrested? Get Legal Help Immediately
Call Us
(512) 476-2494
Why Choose Gunter, Bennett & Anthes for Assault Defense
Our Austin criminal defense lawyers bring decades of experience to your assault case. With a proven track record defending against all types of assault charges, our legal team understands what it takes to achieve favorable outcomes in criminal defense cases.
Former Prosecutors
Our attorneys began their careers as prosecutors in Travis County, giving them unique insight into how assault cases are built and prosecuted. This experience provides valuable advantages when developing defense strategies. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys know how police officers build cases and how to counter their arguments.
Trial Experience
We prepare every assault case as if it will go to trial. While many cases resolve through negotiation, our readiness for trial often leads to better plea offers from prosecutors. Our Austin criminal attorneys have handled countless criminal offenses in court.
Personal Attention
When you hire Gunter, Bennett & Anthes law firm, you work directly with experienced criminal defense attorneys who understand the stress and uncertainty of facing assault charges. We remain accessible throughout the legal process and keep you informed about your case. We provide thorough legal counsel at every stage.
Texas Assault Laws and Penalties
Texas assault laws can be complex, especially when dealing with different degrees of charges. Our Austin criminal defense team can help you understand:
The difference between Class C misdemeanor simple assault and more serious charges
How third-degree felony assault differs from second-degree felony assault
When recklessly causing bodily injury can lead to criminal charges
How injury to another person is defined under Texas law
The legal differences between bodily injury and serious bodily injury
Related Posts
Will I Go to Jail for Assault in Texas?
Questions about Domestic Violence?
Can assault charges be dropped in Texas?
What should I do if I’m arrested for assault in Austin TX?
What are common defense strategies for assault cases?
Can an assault charge be expunged from my record?
What’s the difference between assault and aggravated assault?
Does recklessly causing bodily injury count as assault?
