Looking for The Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Dallas? SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
Person making a fist and another person crouched looking away

CONSEQUENCES OF A
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGE

MC Criminal Law March 14, 2022

In Texas, domestic violence charges are serious. They could jeopardize your quality of life, personal reputation, professional and future opportunities, and your freedom. A trustworthy Texas criminal defense attorney can explain the consequences of a domestic violence charge and help you achieve the best possible outcome. We also help clients address any behaviors that may have contributed to their circumstances, often improving the results of a case while also building a brighter future for personal relationships.

At MC Criminal Law, we are dedicated to offering highly personalized legal counsel and vigorous representation to clients in their domestic violence cases. Our attorneys have decades of jury trial experience and can leverage our long-standing relationships with local law enforcement to help fight for the best possible results for your case. We will strive diligently to protect your rights and ensure an allegation does not ruin your life. We're proud to represent clients in Dallas, Texas, and throughout North Texas, including Fort Worth, Denton, and McKinney.

Domestic Violence in Texas

In Texas, domestic violence or family violence involves any of the following:

  • An act by one family or household member against another which threatens or causes bodily injury, physical harm, assault, or sexual assault

  • Dating violence – a violent act against a person in a dating relationship

  • Child abuse involving a family or household member

Under Texas law, a family or household member may be any of the following persons:

  • A current or former spouse

  • A foster parent or foster child of the defendant

  • A child of a former or current spouse

  • Persons related by marriage, blood, or adoption

  • Parents of the same child

  • A person who currently lives or previously lived in the household

  • A current or former romantic or dating partner

Domestic violence charges in Texas often carry serious and potentially life-changing consequences. But when you immediately reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney, it can make a significant difference in your case. If you've been contacted by law enforcement about a family violence incident of any kind, you should immediately reach out to an attorney. At times, early legal intervention can help you avoid a formal charge or an embarrassing arrest.

Possible Consequences

According to statistics from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, there were 3,500 total arrests for offenses against the family and children in Texas in 2019. A family violence conviction in Texas could result in any of the following penalties and consequences:

  • Jail – Prison sentences may result from a domestic violence charge, ranging from months, years, or decades depending on the type, seriousness, and severity of the particular criminal or violent conduct.

  • Massive Fines – Depending on the specific circumstances, you may be asked to pay up to tens of thousands of dollars in fines.

  • Probation – Part of your sentence may involve probation. You will be required to check in regularly with your probation officer and the Texas court.

  • Treatment – The alleged offender may be asked to attend mandatory anger management classes or drug abuse treatment.

  • Loss of Firearm Rights – The defendant could lose their rights to possess, carry, or purchase a firearm or gun in Texas.

  • Loss of Licenses – This may include the loss of or inability to obtain a fishing or hunting license in the state.

  • Loss of Visitation Rights – A domestic violence conviction in Texas could result in loss of child custody, visitation rights, or other parental privileges.

  • Restraining Order – A restraining or protective order may require the alleged defendant to refrain from contacting the accuser and their family.

  • Loss of Job and Other Benefits – Confinement in prison or jail will jeopardize your current and future employment opportunities.  

  • Deportation – Possible deportation from the United States (if you're a non-U.S. citizen) or inadmissibility into the country may result from a domestic violence charge.

  • Criminal Record – Unfortunately, a domestic violence charge may result in a permanent criminal record, limiting your future opportunities. A criminal history often creates challenges when securing new employment, housing, and other professional and public benefits.

You should never speak with law enforcement about a domestic violence incident, no matter the circumstances, until you have contacted an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney. A knowledgeable domestic violence defense lawyer could keep your case from even being filed. Regardless, we will gather critical evidence early in the process to help determine your best defenses.

How a Skilled Attorney Can Help You

Trying to defend yourself against family violence accusations without reliable representation can increase your risks of conviction and maximum penalties. If convicted, you could face massive fines, lengthy incarceration, a criminal record, loss of parenting privileges, possible deportation, and other life-changing consequences.

At MC Criminal Law, our attorneys have devoted their careers to representing and defending clients wrongfully accused of domestic violence. As former high-level prosecutors in Dallas County, we know how to evaluate all of the details of your unique situation and conduct a thorough, private investigation. With our extensive experience and relationships in the Texas criminal justice system, we are thoroughly equipped to represent you at every phase of the legal process. Our attorneys will strive vigorously to uphold your legal rights and improve your chances of a brighter future.

Family violence charges can be terrifying. Don't face them alone. Contact MC Criminal Law today to schedule a simple case assessment with trustworthy domestic violence defense attorneys. Our team proudly represents clients across Dallas, Texas, and throughout North Texas, including Fort Worth, Denton, and McKinney. No matter where you live in the state, reach out to us today for personalized legal representation and compassionate counsel.

Subscribe

* indicates required