Waco Domestic Violence Lawyer

Contrary to popular belief, domestic violence comes in non-physical forms. Many people falsely assume domestic violence includes only physical violence to a family member, spouse or dating partner, but that is not entirely the case.

Thus, if you get into a heated argument with your partner and things get out of hand, you may be vulnerable to a domestic violence accusation. Screaming, cursing, slamming doors and punching walls could be seen as a crime in the eyes of your alleged victim. Another example of how a domestic violence charge can occur is if you are getting a divorce that your partner did not want. They may retaliate and file a domestic violence charge as “payback” for your decision to end the marriage.

There are several other examples of how false domestic violence accusations can arise, but right now you must focus on overcoming your criminal allegations. Your freedom, future and family are at stake, so you must act quickly and retain a knowledgeable violent crimes attorney at The Greening Law Group to protect your rights.

For over a decade, our Waco domestic violence lawyers have applied our expertise and prosecutorial experience to help clients resolve their cases. You could potentially experience the same outcome should you choose our firm.

Understanding Domestic Violence Crimes

Domestic violence, also known as family violence, falls under three categories in Texas: Domestic assault, aggravated domestic assault and continuous violence against the family. Any act by a family member, household member or dating partner that intends to cause physical harm, bodily injury, assault or sexual assault, or is a threat that reasonably places the person in fear of imminent danger, can constitute domestic violence. This does not include defensive measures to protect yourself.

Continuous Violence Against Family

A person commits an offense if, during a period that is 12 months or less in duration, they engage in conduct against another person who is a family member, household member or dating partner two or more times. This is a third-degree felony.

Domestic Assault

A person who knowingly or intentionally causes or threatens bodily injury to a family member, household member or dating partner is guilty of a third-degree felony.

Aggravated Domestic Assault

A person commits a second-degree felony if they commit assault and cause serious bodily injury to another or use or exhibit a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault. The charge may be enhanced to a first-degree felony if the crime involved:

• Using a deadly weapon causing serious bodily injury to a family member, household member or dating partner
• The offense is committed:
  • By a public servant acting under color of the servant’s office or employment
  • Against a public servant who is lawfully discharging an official duty
  • In retaliation against or on account of the service of a witness, prospective witness, informant, or person who has reported the crime
  • Against a security officer on duty
• Being in a motor vehicle and:
  • Knowingly discharging a firearm at or in the direction of a habitation, building, or vehicle
  • Acting recklessly as to whether the habitation, building, or vehicle is occupied
  • In discharging the firearm, causes serious bodily injury to any person

A Waco lawyer who handles domestic violence cases could provide more information on types of domestic crimes and their possible consequences.

Types of Protective Orders

The alleged victim will most likely file a protective order, also called a restraining order against you. There are three types of protective orders in Texas:

• Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order
• Final Protective Order
• Magistrates Order of Emergency Protection

A protective order will prohibit you from doing the following:

• Committing family violence
• Communicating in a threatening or harassing manner with a family or household member
• Going near your partner’s residence and place of employment
• Going near childcare and school facilities
• Stalking
• Possessing a firearm

Our lawyers in Waco could help with collecting evidence and documentation for a client being accused of domestic violence.

Call a Waco Domestic Violence Attorney Today

It is fair to assert that a domestic violence charge can impact you in immeasurable ways. To best avoid suffering the legal, personal and social penalties associated with your domestic violence charge, contact The Greening Law Group to speak with our seasoned criminal defense attorney. As a former prosecutor, our lead Waco domestic violence lawyer could help you understand how both sides of the law work as well as how we can help you come out on top.