Domestic Violence Attorney in Houston Texas
A domestic violence 911 call will often end with your arrest, regardless of how valid the accusation is. Jimmy Ortiz is a Houston domestic violence attorney who can help the court see your side and fight false accusations.
Domestic Violence in Texas
Domestic violence occurs when one family or household member assaults another member of that family or household. These attacks must include the following criteria:
- The intention to physically harm, assault, sexually assault, or bodily harm a family or household member
- Causing fear with a reasonable threat of imminent physical harm, assault, bodily injury, or sexual assault
Domestic violence claims often result in elevated assault charges, the most serious of which is a first-degree felony that carries state prison time of five to 99 years or life.
Defending Against Domestic Violence Charges
Each domestic violence case involves different circumstances that include the nature of the offense, your relationship to the accuser, and past complaints. Typical defenses that your domestic assault lawyer in Houston will consider include:
- Innocence: If the claim made against you is false, we can discredit the accuser and their credibility.
- Self-Defense: The use of force is justifiable to protect yourself against someone who is attempting to assault you.
- Third-Party Defense: You may use reasonable force to intervene and protect a third person.
Discussing your situation completely and honestly with your attorney may be difficult, but it is the best way to mount a viable defense.
Answering False Accusations of Domestic Assault
If someone in your family or household has accused or threatened to accuse you of domestic violence, you should contact a Houston domestic battery attorney immediately. Many believe that domestic assault charges will disappear if the accuser declines to press charges, but it is the prosecutor who makes that call. To make matters worse, they often bring charges even if the claim is false or exaggerated.
Dealing With Protective Orders
Alleged domestic violence victims will frequently request a protective order, which can remove you from your home, prevent you from contacting them, and keep you away from your children. If a judge believes you are a threat, they can issue an immediate temporary PO that lasts up to 20 days without your knowledge.
A permanent protective order requires you to attend a hearing, and this is your opportunity to defend yourself with help from a domestic assault lawyer in Houston. If the court issues a permanent PO, it can last up to two years, and the accuser can move to extend it. Violating a PO can lead to fines of up to $4,000 and one year in jail.
Consult With an Experienced Houston Domestic Violence Attorney
An experienced Houston domestic violence attorney can help you prevent a false accusation or exaggeration from ruining your family, career, and reputation. Call today at (713) 759-1800 so that I can provide counsel and a sound defense in these emotional cases.
Contact Jimmy for more information
or call today at 713-759-1800
