Forest Hill Domestic Violence Attorney
Not all families see their family and household members as people they can count on and with whom they have a strong bond.
Various factors contribute to this phenomenon, with some experiencing an inability to rely on their families due to physical and emotional abuse. This abuse escalates, especially when dissent or resistance is perceived. Despite the ease of reporting such situations to authorities, many are deterred by either underestimating the severity of their circumstances or fearing retaliation from their abusers upon disclosure.
Davis and Associates, Attorneys at Law‘s Forest Hill domestic violence lawyers offer assistance in securing safety and filing cases against abusers. We ensure that your case is presented in court with all necessary evidence for conviction. Our team also serves as your advocate, shielding you from harm and alleviating pressure to retract your case.
Call Davis and Associates, Attorneys at Law at (817) 631-8492 for your Free Consultation with a Forest Hill Domestic Violence attorney.
Definition of Domestic Violence in Texas
Domestic violence or domestic assault in Texas is defined as any act committed by a family or household member against another member of the family that results in physical injury, sexual assault, or mental harm. Acts of assault against a child or a romantic partner also fall under the category of domestic assault.
Many crimes can be considered acts of domestic assault, and they include:
- Assault and aggravated assault
- Continuous family abuse and violence
- Kidnapping
- Stalking
- Unlawful restraint
- Violating a protective order
- Homicide
Penalties for Domestic Violence in Texas
Once a case is considered domestic violence or assault, the penalty will depend on the severity of the abuse committed and whether the case is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Anyone found guilty of domestic assault or violence will face mandatory penalties such as fines, prison time, and legal restrictions.
In addition, they may incur further penalties including community service, denial of child custody rights, and wage liens.
Protective Orders
It is not uncommon for victims of domestic violence to seek protection to ensure they are no longer abused or pressured by their abusers while their case is being heard. In Texas, protective orders are available for them to request before the court, which prevents the defendant from taking further action. Depending on the defendant’s history, additional conditions can even be attached to these protective orders. Violations of these orders can result in additional penalties for the defendant, on top of their conviction.
One of our Forest Hill domestic violence lawyers will promptly petition for the appropriate protective order to shield you from further harm as they file your domestic violence case in court. Your assigned lawyer will prepare all the necessary evidence for the court to consider granting your request and ensure the defendant is aware of these orders. If there are any violations, you can trust us to act swiftly to report the violation to the court and ensure that the appropriate penalties are imposed.
Bail and Bond Conditions
The court may also use bail and bond conditions to protect domestic assault victims from further abuse should the abuser request bail. Like protective orders, bail, and bond conditions will be designed to prohibit the defendant from approaching or acting against the victim and any protected individuals. It will also restrict their movements and certain freedoms, such as owning a gun or driving.
If the defendant agrees to the bail and bond conditions, victims will be notified, and the court may give them additional protections if needed. The police can also hold the defendant for an additional day or two if they have a prior history of violence and abuse. If these conditions are violated for whatever reason, the defendant will be apprehended and sent to jail, where they will wait for the case’s conclusion.
Our Forest Hill, TX family law firm will monitor the discussions for bail and bond conditions and ensure you are safe once the defendant is freed. If any violations are committed, we will immediately take the appropriate steps to get the court informed and apprehend the defendant.
Free Consultation Today
Whether your abusers are your family members or trusted household staff, you shouldn’t let them continue abusing you and the rest of the family. Their actions shouldn’t be condoned in any way, and letting them get their way would only lead to further suffering and heartache.
Speak to one of our Forest Hill domestic violence lawyers at any time to see if you need to take legal action against them and start the case. Once the court decides, we will be behind you through every step and get you on the right track to recovery.
Call Davis and Associates, Attorneys at Law at (817) 631-8492 for your Free Consultation with a Forest Hill Domestic Violence attorney.