If you are facing aggravated assault charges, having a skilled aggravated assault lawyer by your side makes all the difference. This serious criminal offense carries severe penalties, but a strong legal defense can help protect your rights and your future. When prosecutors see you are represented by experienced aggravated assault lawyers, they will treat your case differently.
At M|C Criminal Law, we have the knowledge and expertise to challenge the prosecution’s case and craft a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Do not wait to take action. Contact M|C Criminal Law today to explain the circumstances of your case and take the first step toward safeguarding your future.
Aggravated assault in Texas is outlined under Section 22.02 of the Texas Penal Code. A person commits this offense if they:
This offense is a step above simple assault due to the severity of harm or the involvement of a deadly weapon, making it a significant charge with serious consequences. These elements of aggravated assault are defined in Texas law:
Serious bodily injury refers to injuries that create a substantial risk of death, result in serious permanent disfigurement, or lead to the prolonged loss or impairment of a bodily function or organ. This means that even injuries that may seem minor at first can meet this definition if they result in significant consequences.
The second key component of aggravated assault under Texas law is the use or exhibition of a deadly weapon during the commission of the offense. According to the Texas Penal Code, a ‘deadly weapon’ is a firearm or anything designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death or serious bodily injury.
This means that while weapons such as guns and knives are obvious examples, other objects such as vehicles, blunt instruments, or even everyday items can be classified as deadly weapons if used in a way that poses a risk of significant harm. Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is often charged as a second-degree felony.
However, it can be elevated to a first-degree felony if the offense involves certain circumstances, such as harm to a family member or a public servant. Understanding the role of a deadly weapon in your case is critical to building a strong defense. If you are accused of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, our aggravated assault lawyers will guide you on the best path forward.
Aggravated assault is often a second-degree felony, however, as we mentioned, it can be elevated to a first-degree felony under some circumstances. A second-degree felony in Texas can be punished by:
When the charge is elevated to a first-degree felony, the penalties become even more severe:
Factors that can lead to an enhanced charge include causing serious bodily injury to a family member, public servant, or witness, or using a deadly weapon in a manner that causes substantial harm.
On top of that, a conviction for aggravated assault not only risks harsh legal penalties but also carries long-term repercussions, such as a permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, and damage to personal relationships.
Facing these charges without experienced legal counsel can be overwhelming. The worst mistake you could make is to talk to the police on your own. Anything you say can be used against you, and law enforcement may try to pressure you into making statements that could harm your case.
If you are charged with aggravated assault, it is crucial you:
By taking these initial steps, you protect your rights and give your lawyer the best chance to craft a strong defense strategy.
At M|C Criminal Law, we understand how serious aggravated assault charges are and the impact they can have on your future. With years of experience as former prosecutors and current criminal defense lawyers, we know how to navigate Texas’ legal system and how prosecutors build their cases.
This insight gives our attorneys for aggravated crimes a unique advantage when defending clients. There are many defense strategies that could apply to your case, from self-defense to lack of intent to mistaken identity. However, to create the best possible defense strategy, we need to know all of the details.
Don’t wait – contact us today and let the best aggravated assault lawyers in Texas take over. Let us help you protect your future and fight for the best possible outcome.
