Heated arguments can quickly lead to incidents of domestic violence and eventually to criminal charges, even in cases where no physical violence actually occurred. Allegations of domestic violence can have significant repercussions for all of the parties involved, so if you were recently unfairly accused of domestic violence, or were the victim of unlawful threats, it is important to contact an experienced Houston domestic violence lawyer who can walk you through your legal options before you proceed with your case.
Family Violence Involving Threats
Under Texas law, family violence is defined as an act against a household member that is intended to result in physical harm or bodily injury. However, this definition also includes situations where someone threatens a household member in such a way that that individual fears imminent physical harm, even if no actual physical abuse occurred. These types of charges are levied much more often than most people realize. In fact, it is estimated that nearly ten percent of all domestic violence calls don’t actually involve allegations of physical harm, but relate to threats, with or without a weapon. It’s also important to keep in mind that these kinds of charges can only be filed when the threat is made to a family or household member, which includes:
- Blood relatives;
- Married couples;
- Former spouses;
- The biological parents of a child;
- Foster parents;
- Members of the same household, including roommates; and
- Those who previously lived together in a household.
For help grappling with or filing your own domestic violence charges, please reach out to our dedicated domestic violence lawyers today.
Penalties for a Domestic Violence Conviction
Domestic violence charges involving allegations of threats of physical injury are typically charged as Class C misdemeanors. While these crimes are not punishable by jail time, they should still be taken seriously, as they will result in the creation of a permanent criminal record, which can make it difficult for a person to obtain housing or secure employment. Furthermore, having an existing criminal record can have an effect on subsequent charges for other crimes. Prior offenders, for instance, can generally expect to receive harsher penalties for later crimes, as those who have been convicted of any type of domestic violence crime and who later commit a threat-based domestic violence offense, could face third-degree felony charges, which are punishable by between one and ten years in prison.
Contact an Experienced Houston Domestic Violence Attorney
If you were unfairly accused of making threats to a family member, or were legitimately threatened by a relative or household member, you need the assistance of a dedicated lawyer who can advise you throughout the legal process. Please call (281) 280-0100 to speak with one of the domestic violence attorneys at The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates about how we can help you with your case. We don’t charge for initial consultations, so if you have domestic violence-related questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today by phone or online message. We serve clients in Galveston, League City, and Houston.