College Station Assault Lawyer

College Station Assault Attorney

Assault is a serious offense that can lead to time in jail or even prison. Anyone who is facing assault charges should seek the legal services of a College Station assault lawyer to fight for their rights and defend them in court. Your charges could potentially be dropped or reduced to a lesser charge if you have strong legal representation.

The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, has a solid reputation for client-focused representation in court. Our founding attorney has helped many satisfied former clients resolve their criminal cases on favorable terms. We fight to secure optimal outcomes when defending our clients.

Why Choose the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC

The consequences of an assault conviction can have life-long consequences. After you serve out your punishment, you could have difficulty finding gainful employment or housing. The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, can help you fight the charges against you so your case is resolved on favorable terms. Our attorney is not afraid to go to trial if necessary.

Assault charges can result from simple misunderstandings or even an attempt by the alleged victim to malign your reputation. We can work to change the narrative surrounding your arrest by scrutinizing the evidence against you and poking holes in the prosecution’s case.

Common Punishments for Assault Convictions

In Texas, assault, as defined under Penal Code Section 22.01, occurs when someone knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly causes bodily harm, threatens harm, or makes offensive contact. Assault is typically a Class A misdemeanor, with penalties of up to one year in jail and $4,000 in fines.

Assaults against public servants or family members or involving strangulation can be classified as felonies, carrying harsher penalties, including potential prison sentences of two to twenty years. Aggravated assault involving serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon may result in first-degree felony charges and a life sentence in prison.

Common On-Campus Assault Situations

Assaults that occur on college campuses require unique considerations by the defense. Academic pressures, social events, and new living environments can create situations where misunderstandings can escalate with regrettable consequences.

Campus assaults can occur during sporting events, disputes at parties, or disagreements between roommates. Having a skilled defense lawyer is essential in any of those situations. Though reduced charges are not guaranteed, an experienced attorney can present the context of the incident to prosecutors, aiming to demonstrate that the accused student did not act with the intent to commit harm.

By highlighting the student’s academic record, lack of prior offenses, and overall positive standing in the community, a lawyer can often negotiate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or probationary measures. This approach can minimize the long-term impact of an assault charge on the student’s future.

Potential Legal Defense Strategies for College Station Assault Charges

As with other crimes, assault charges can be questioned by examining the evidence and looking for inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. One common defense for assault charges involves arguing that the victim provoked the assault or even initiated the altercation. By changing the narratives proportionate to the threat. Another strategy is to demonstrate that the contact did not involve criminal intent, meaning that the defendant did not mean or intend to cause harm or to make the victim fear for their safety.

FAQs About College Station, TX Assault Laws

How Long Does an Assault Charge Stay on Your Record in Texas?

In College Station, an assault charge remains on your record indefinitely unless it is expunged or sealed through an order of nondisclosure. Expungement is only available for certain cases, such as dismissed charges or acquittals. Records generally cannot be expunged for convictions, potentially impacting employment and housing opportunities in the long term. Consult an attorney to clarify eligibility for record sealing.

Is Yelling at Someone Considered Assault in Texas?

In Texas, yelling at someone typically does not constitute a criminal offense unless the verbal exchange involves threats of imminent bodily harm. Another requirement for a criminal charge for verbal assault is that the person who is being yelled at must believe they are in danger. Assault requires either intentional bodily injury, threats of immediate harm, or physical contact deemed offensive. Yelling alone does not, generally, constitute a crime.

Can I Be Sued for Assault in Texas?

Yes, you can be sued for assault in Texas. If someone has substantial proof that you assaulted them, they can bring a civil claim against you to request compensation for any damages they sustained as a result of the alleged assault. A claim can be brought against you even if criminal charges are not.

Can You Be Charged With Assault for Fighting Back in Texas?

Yes, you can be charged with assault for fighting back in Texas, but whether the charge holds depends on the specific circumstances of the incident and whether you acted in self-defense. Individuals have the right to protect themselves from harm, but there are limitations. You may be justified in your use of self-defense if you did not initiate the conflict, you used an appropriate level of force, you reasonably believed you were in immediate danger of bodily harm, and you did not escalate the situation.

Schedule Your College Station Assault Charge Consultation Today

An assault charge, though serious, can be based on one person’s accusations alone. Following a criminal charge, it may seem that the wheels of justice turn slowly. Having legal representation can greatly improve the chances that the full story is heard by the courts. Mitigating factors like provocation from the victim can lead to reduced or even dropped charges.

At the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, we can explore every reasonable defense strategy when defending you against this charge. We understand that law enforcement makes mistakes and sometimes jumps to conclusions. We’re on your side. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.