Texas needs domestic violence lawyers because domestic violence is a serious issue here that affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and income levels. It affects not only the victims but also their loved ones. The consequences of this type of abuse are sometimes overlooked or minimized because many people do not know that it is a crime. You can consult a family lawyer if you want to move legally against domestic violence in your household. In Texas, the consequences for domestic violence can be severe and will depend on the severity of the offense.
No state has a higher annual average of domestic violence than Texas, and according to some sources, Texas also has the highest rate of female homicides in the United States. This is alarming considering that approximately one out of every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime.
Common Family Violence Crimes
- Domestic assault
In Texas, domestic assault is a crime that can be the cause of many different types of incidents. The person who commits the assault may be a spouse, a current or former dating partner, or someone who is committing an act of family violence. Domestic assaults are among the most common crimes committed in Texas, and they also have one of the highest rates of repeat offenses.
- Aggravated domestic assault
Aggravated domestic assault in Texas is a serious offense with a heavy penalty. Aggravated assault in the state of Texas is defined as assaulting, resisting, opposing, intimidating, or intentionally causing bodily injury to another person with a deadly weapon. The law does not list domestic assault as a separate crime but can be charged as an “aggravated” offense when certain conditions are met.
- Continuous violence against the family
Texas is one of the many states in the United States where a person can be charged with the felony of Continuous violence against the family. This type of charge arises when a person commits an act that falls under this category more than once within a specific period of time.
- Violation of protective orders
Texas is one of the strictest states when it comes to the violation of protective orders. Anyone found in violation will be charged with a felony punishable by up to 10 years in state prison. There are several ways that one can violate a protective order, including but not limited to stalking or harassing the victim, making contact with the victim, and not abiding by the terms of any child custody arrangement. Protective orders are designed to provide safety for victims of domestic violence or abuse.