Facing Assault Charges in Killeen?

Assault charges are serious, but you don’t have to face the charges alone. Whether you’re dealing with accusations from a heated argument that got out of hand, a misunderstanding, or something more complicated, the attorneys at Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DUI Lawyers are here to help.

What is assault?

In Texas, assault covers a wide range of behaviors – some of which don’t even involve physical contact. Assault can be any act where a person:

• Intentionally or knowingly threatens another person with bodily harm. Even if you don’t touch the other person, a threat that causes them to fear for their safety can be considered assault.
• Intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with someone else when the other person considers that contact offensive or provocative. This could include situations where you didn’t intend harm but where your actions were seen as offensive or unwanted.
• Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another person. This is what most people think of when they hear “assault,” involving direct physical harm to someone else.

Types of assault charges in Killeen

Assault charges in Texas can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the situation. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:

• Class C misdemeanor assault: This type of assault usually involves threats of harm or minor contact deemed offensive. If you’re charged with a Class C misdemeanor, you could face up to a $500 fine. Although it might seem minor, it still goes on your criminal record.
• Class A misdemeanor assault: If someone was injured, but the injuries were minor, you might face a Class A misdemeanor charge. This level of assault can result in up to one year in county jail and fines of up to $4,000.
• Felony assault: Assault charges become felonies when there’s severe bodily injury or certain aggravating factors, like using a weapon or assaulting a public servant, emergency worker, or family member. These charges carry much harsher penalties, including significant prison time and high fines.

Each of these charges can lead to lasting consequences. A criminal record, fines, and potential jail or prison time can affect many aspects of your life, from your job to your relationships. That’s why it’s important to understand your rights and take the proper steps to protect yourself.

What rights do I have after assault charges?

Facing an assault charge doesn’t mean you lose all your rights. Understanding your rights is one of the most important parts of protecting yourself. You have the:

• Right to remain silent. You don’t have to answer questions from the police without your Killeen criminal defense attorney present. It’s best to avoid making any statements until you have legal representation, as anything you say can be used against you in court.
• Right to an attorney. You have the right to a lawyer. Having a defense attorney by your side will help you understand the charges, protect your rights, and build a defense strategy that makes sense for your case.
• Right to be informed of charges. You have the right to know exactly what charges you’re facing and why. Your attorney will review the specifics with you, including any evidence the prosecution may have.
• Right to challenge evidence. The prosecution has to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. You have the right to challenge the evidence they present. This can include questioning witness statements, disputing surveillance footage, or giving an alternative explanation for the events that took place.

What defenses do I have for Killeen assault charges?

No two assault cases are exactly the same, so your defense will depend on the specifics of your situation. However, here are some common defense strategies that might apply:

• Self-defense. One of the most common defenses in assault cases is self-defense. If you were attempting to protect yourself from harm, the court may decide that your actions were justified. Texas law allows you to defend yourself if you believe you’re in immediate danger.
• Defense of others. Similarly, you might argue that you were defending another person from harm. If someone else was at risk, and you stepped in to protect them, this could be a valid defense.
• Lack of intent. For an action to be considered assault, there usually needs to be intent. If the incident was purely accidental or unintentional, our lawyers can argue that you didn’t mean to cause harm, which can sometimes help reduce or dismiss the charges against you.
• False accusations. In some cases, people make accusations out of anger, jealousy, or misunderstanding. If you’re being wrongfully accused, we can help gather evidence to challenge the allegations and clear your name.
• Insufficient evidence. Sometimes, the evidence against you might not be strong enough to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This might be the case when there are no witnesses or physical evidence to back up the claims. In these situations, our attorneys can argue that there just isn’t enough proof for a conviction.

What steps should I take after being charged with assault?

If you’ve been charged with assault in Killeen, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your future:

• Stay calm, and don’t panic. While it’s natural to feel stressed, try to stay calm. Panicking or acting out of fear can lead to decisions that might make your case worse.
• Contact a criminal defense attorney. Don’t try to handle this alone. At Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers, our experienced criminal defense attorneys can help you understand your rights and build a strong defense.
• Avoid contact with the alleged victim. Whether the alleged victim is a stranger or someone you know, it’s usually best to avoid contact until the case is resolved. Reaching out might be seen as an attempt to intimidate or influence them.
• Gather evidence. Share any evidence that could support your case — such as text messages, emails, or witness information — with your attorney. The more information we have, the stronger a defense we can build for you.
• Avoid talking about the case publicly. Don’t discuss your case with friends, family, or on social media. The prosecution could use anything you say to build a case against you.

If you’re facing assault charges in Killeen, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Reach out to the skilled criminal defense attorneys at Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers today. Our team understands the law and is here to guide you through each step, working to minimize the impact on your life. Call us or fill out our contact form today to schedule a consultation.