Assault Charges in Fort Worth

Family Violence (ABI-FM) Defense Attorney

Class A Misdemeanor or Felony Assault involves intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing pain to another person. This could involve slapping, punching, choking, hair pulling, or any other physical assault. What happens if the alleged victim ("AV") wants to "drop the charges"? First of all, the AV is not a party to the lawsuit It is the State of Texas against the accused. In Tarrant County, about 75% of alleged victims want to drop the charges. But the decision is exclusively the prosecutor's to make. Family Violence charges are not just dropped at the request of the AV. The consequences of even a deferred probation in a ABI-FM case are severe. If an Emergency Protective Order has been issued, it is imperative that you talk with an experienced defense attorney, Julie Hanley. For all these reasons, it is crucial that a defendant be proactive in hiring an attorney.

Crimes of a violent nature are taken very seriously in the state of Texas, especially those which involve family violence. Having this crime on your record can impact your apartment lease or HOA, whether you can have a gun or even ammunition. Domestic assault or family violence (ABI-FM) is a crime which involves physical altercations between two people who live in the same household or are involved in a relationship. The Fort Worth criminal defense attorney at the Law Office of Julie Hanley, P.C. offers aggressive representation against charges of assault and family violence.

Criminal Defense of Family Violence

Although family violence charges are often thought to involve spouses, domestic assault family violence covers all close relationships. This may include children, roommates, or other family members. If you have been accused of domestic assault against a direct relative or romantic relationship, it is essential that you retain legal support and think about divorce in Texas online.

Depending on the circumstances, you may qualify for the following Tarrant County diversion programs:

• Domestic Violence Diversion Program
• Youthful Offender Diversion Alternative
• Other behavioral intervention with Assault Non-Family (OBI WAN) Program

Consequences of Assault Family Violence

It is important that you understand the consequences you could face if you are convicted. In addition to the immediate legal consequences, an order of protection will be issued if you are convicted. What this means is that you will be forbade from returning to your home, seeing your family member or spouse (or the alleged victim in question), or seeing your children.

The consequences of assault family violence may also include:

• Restitution
• Significant fines
• Time in jail or prison
• Felony charge on your record
• Community service/anger management

Would you like a free consultation with a Fort Worth criminal defense attorney to discuss your charges? Call Julie Hanley now at 706-833-6278 to make an appointment.