Mesquite Aggravated Assault Lawyer

Mesquite Aggravated Assault Attorney

Anyone facing aggravated assault charges in Texas will likely attest to how overwhelming the experience is, especially considering the stakes of prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record mark if convicted. However, not every accusation means someone is guilty. These charges often arise from situations that escalate quickly, where the facts are not always clear prior to a formal investigation. A Mesquite aggravated assault lawyer can help you bring the facts to light.

At Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC, we understand that being accused of aggravated assault is not as clear-cut as some might make it seem. Each case has its own set of unique facts. Understanding this, we take our time to uncover what really happened to ensure no one tries to misconstrue information to try and unfairly support their own narrative of what happened. At the end of the day, we are here to ensure no one overlooks your rights from start to finish.

Understanding Aggravated Assault in Texas

Cases of aggravated assault are more serious than traditional assaults. It involves instances where someone has caused either serious bodily injury or used or exhibited a deadly weapon to carry out the act. Under Texas law, even a heated argument can sometimes escalate into an aggravated assault charge if there are certain factors present. This includes:

• Serious bodily injury: This refers to injuries that create a substantial risk of death or cause permanent disfigurement or impairment. It’s important to know that even if the victim is expected to make a full recovery, the severity of the injury can still elevate this charge to aggravated assault.
• Use of a deadly weapon: Any case where a firearm, knife, or even a car is used in a threatening Even just simply displaying or exhibiting it during an incident could be enough to qualify for this charge.
• Intentionally, knowingly or recklessness: The law considers whether the individual accused acted intentionally, knowingly or If so, this sets the tone for how the case will be prosecuted moving forward.

In 2022, Texas reported 90,759 aggravated assault offenses. This highlights how frequently these charges happen in our region and why it’s important to secure legal counsel right away. The quicker an attorney can start working on your case, the more opportunity to dismantle the prosecution’s case.

Why Do People Get Charged with Aggravated Assault?

Aggravated assault charges often stem from split-second decisions or emotionally charged situations. When these tense moments happen, it can lead to a false accusation. Sometimes, that is intentional, while other times, it is a genuine belief. That’s why many claim these cases are rarely black and white. Some common scenarios that lead to aggravated assault charges include:

• Arguments escalate when someone grabs an object in anger or makes a threatening gesture that gives the illusion they want to cause harm.
• Domestic disputes where emotions run high and the line between making verbal threats and physical violence becomes blurrier.
• Bar fights or road rage incidents where a moment of poor judgment can be interpreted as using or threatening deadly force.
• Misunderstood actions that someone else perceives as threatening, even when the individual accused had no intention to cause harm.

Many are surprised to learn that under Texas law, assault does not always require a physical injury to be present. It can also include threats of harm or other forms of offensive contact. That’s why cities like Mesquite reported 544 aggravated assault cases in 2021.

This puts every 3.69 out of 1,000 residents at risk of being involved. It’s a sobering reminder that everyday encounters can escalate in this way, but it doesn’t always mean it meets the legal definition of assault.

FAQs About Mesquite, TX Aggravated Assault Laws

Q: Can an Aggravated Assault Charge Be Dismissed in Texas?

A: Yes, it is possible to have an aggravated assault charge dismissed in Texas. The possibility of this happening will depend on the details of the case in question. If your defense lawyer finds there is insufficient evidence, conflicting witness statements, or a strong argument that you had to engage in self-defense, any of these arguments could be used to try to have the charges dropped. Each case is unique, which is why early legal intervention is so important.

Q: What Is the Punishment for Aggravated Assault in Texas?

A: If you are found guilty of aggravated assault in Texas, the punishment can be severe. This often involves lengthy prison sentences, high fines, and long-term consequences like a permanent mark on your criminal record. The punishment range is a minimum of 2 years and a maximum of 20 years confinement in the penitentiary. Anywhere up to 10 years probation could also be an option, if someone does not get prison time. The specifics are hard to predict, as each case presents its own challenges and possible penalties. Beyond the legalities, a conviction could also affect your ability to secure a job or housing. This is why you need a strong defense from the start.

Q: What Happens When Someone Presses Charges on Someone for Aggravated Assault?

A: When someone presses charges against another person for aggravated assault, the process typically begins by triggering a police investigation and a possible arrest. Law enforcement will start gathering statements, reviewing evidence, and determining if there is enough information to forward the case to the district attorney. From there, the prosecutor will decide if they should formally file charges or not.

Q: What Is the Average Cost of a Lawyer in Texas?

A: The total cost of hiring a lawyer in Texas varies widely depending on how complicated your case is, how many years of experience the attorney has, and how close their firm office is to the county of the charge. How they charge varies as well. In criminal cases, most attorneys charge a retainer based on a flat fee. While it is rare, some prefer to bill by the hour for their services. It’s important to recognize that intense charges like aggravated assault typically require more time and resources, which can increase overall costs.

Contact Harris & Harris Law Group, PLLC Today

If you have recently been charged with aggravated assault in Mesquite and are looking for quality legal representation, we are the team to make it happen. Contact our firm today to jumpstart your path to protecting your future. From day one, we will ensure that the case is investigated thoroughly and no one tries to take advantage of your rights or leave you suffering unnecessary consequences. We look forward to meeting you.