If you’ve caught any of the news in the past week like I, attorney Thomas C. Locke, have, you’re bound to have heard about certain prominent figures being charged with domestic violence. Education combats ignorance, so let’s take this opportunity to discuss the real facts about this very serious issue. While it’s horrific to hear about, each time a domestic violence story covered in the media is an opportunity to save lives.
The US Department of Justice defines domestic violence as:
“A pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.”
Texas law also calls domestic violence “family violence” and has special proceedings for cases of this nature. It’s important to keep in mind that the penalties for domestic violence crimes have some serious costs:
• Class A misdemeanor: Up to a year in jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000
• 3rd degree felony: From 2-10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000
• 2nd degree felony: From 2-20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000
• 1st degree felony: From 5-99 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000
You might also be required to pay restitution to the victim for counseling, medical expenses, or replacing/repairing damaged property if convicted of simple assault.
Being charged with any kind of domestic assault is no laughing matter. A criminal conviction, even a misdemeanor, will become part of your permanent record—and the implications of such have far reaching consequences. If you are convicted you could lose the right to possess or own firearms, become ineligible for certain kinds of educational financial aid, and have your general rights as a citizen seriously limited. In addition, a conviction of domestic assault will also affect people’s perception of you—especially a current or future employer—and could cost you your job or other opportunities in the future.
In a situation where you have been wrongfully accused of domestic violence, it is extremely important to seek legal representation immediately. This is not a situation you want to leave to chance. Make sure you have a knowledgeable attorney to help you through it, don’t do it alone. An attorney well versed in criminal law—specifically in domestic assault—will investigate and review your case and then advise you about the options available to you, as well as help you in making decisions about your case and most importantly: protect your rights.
With so much at stake, don’t leave anything to chance. If you are accused of domestic violence, contact Thomas C. Locke at (832) 308-7623 to schedule a free confidential consultation to discuss what other avenues of protection may be available to you.