Family Violence Attorneys With Decades Of Experience, Proven Track Record, A Name You Can Trust
A family violence criminal conviction in the state court can have disastrous consequences for the accused’s rights – rights that many of us take for granted. You may be placed under a protective order, which will severely restrict your normal activities. Child custody and visitation rights after a divorce, the right to own a firearm, immigration status and the likelihood of deportation are just a few of the ways your life can go wrong after a family violence complaint. To protect your rights against any kind of family violence charge in Sherman, you need experienced, aggressive criminal defense representation in your corner – the kind that built the Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm’s reputation. Bob Jarvis and Matt Hamilton are skilled criminal defense lawyers with decades of combined experience that can make a difference between conviction and acquittal in a family violence case.
When you retain the Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm to safeguard your interests after an arrest for physical or verbal spousal abuse, child abuse, stalking, harassment or terroristic threats, you also receive the advantage of our legal team’s prosecutorial background. Bob Jarvis and Matt Hamilton know how to investigate charges and use the details of their findings to negotiate with the prosecutor in your case. At trial, they think as the opposing counsel does, anticipating strategies and frustrating the prosecution with timely tactics of their own.
“Having experience with divorce cases and child custody disputes gives us an edge when we investigate false allegations of family violence,” says Bob Jarvis.
Were you arrested for interference with a 911 phone call, impeding another person’s breath (choking) or any other form of family violence? The Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm’s proven track record – and name you can trust – is on your side every step of the way. We look forward to meeting you and working with you, beginning with your free initial consultation.
Defining Family Violence In Texas
Texas law defines family violence as any act or threat that an individual uses to hurt or control a member of their family, household or dating circle. This can include punching, choking, unwanted sexual acts, threats of danger, and physical and emotional abuse directed at children. Family violence can happen between:
- Parents, children, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles and in-laws
- Dating partners, former husbands or wives
- Unmarried parents with children
These distinctions matter because they offer the victim legal protections. In fact, the state prosecutes these actions as criminal assault charges enhanced by an affirmative finding of family violence.
Outlining The Penalties Of A Texas Family Violence Conviction
You can face severe penalties for violating a protective order. This counts as a Class A Misdemeanor, which results in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. If you commit an assault causing bodily injury and have a prior conviction for family violence, the state can enhance the charge to a third-degree felony. This carries two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Beyond court mandates, a lifetime of restrictions can be a reality for you. Losing your gun rights, failing employment background checks and having a permanent court label are some of the many consequences.
Taking Action When Facing A Family Violence Charge
The actions following an arrest can significantly impact your standing. Here are recommended tips on navigating a family violence charge in Texas:
- Exercise your right to silence. Avoid explaining your side to law enforcement because anything you say can turn into evidence against you.
- Comply with all terms listed in the emergency protective order. If the courts require you to cut all communications and move out, you must follow immediately.
- Refrain from sharing your situation on social media or with your loved ones. This can also turn into incriminating evidence.
- Preserve evidence. You can gather screenshots of your text messages with the accuser, compile witnesses and take photos of any injuries you sustained.
- Seek legal counsel from a criminal defense attorney for further guidance.
We at the Jarvis & Hamilton Law Firm understand the challenges of family violence charges. Our team will work with you in building defense strategies and represent you in court.
Tough, Talented Trial Attorneys With More Than 35 Years Of Combined Experience
Your first meeting with our lawyers is free of charge and can occur at our Sherman law office. Call today – 903-202-0516. We give immediate attention to your email message.