Domestic violence is a sensitive topic for many families. In the Texas legal system, it’s classified as any intentional violent act against a family member, household member, or current or past romantic partner. Some examples of domestic violence include:
- Causing bodily injury
- Unwanted sexual contact
- Threatening to cause harm and bodily injury
- Emotional and financial abuse
Legal Consequences
Penalties for a domestic violence conviction depend on the exact nature of the alleged abuse, the age of the alleged victim, and the relationship between them. For example, a one-time event that did not result in physical injuries to the victim may have a penalty of a $500 fine and Class C Misdemeanor charges. However, if the altercation leads to bodily harm or consistent abuse over time, then the defendant could face felony charges and up to a $10,000 fine.
Protection and Restraining Orders
Being accused of any crime carries serious consequences not only in your social life but can also impact your criminal record. For example, if you are served with a protective order, it’s important to treat the interaction as you would with law enforcement. Do not sign anything or say anything that could either potentially incriminate yourself or be used later as an inconsistency in your testimony at trial. Many people make the mistake of signing documents like protection or restraining orders with the assumption that they are just civil infractions, but they can impact your criminal case. Always remain silent.
A protective order served against you will add a complication to your domestic violence case, and even if found innocent, the protective order could remain in effect, which will impact your personal life and career. In some cases, you could immediately lose your job, or it could prevent you from entering certain professions.
Working with an experienced legal team can help improve your chances of maintaining a clear record and avoiding the terrible collateral consequences that go along with criminal allegations and convictions. Call (806) 372-5711 for guidance.
