Assault Lawyer
MARK A. PEREZ, ATTORNEY AT LAW
If you have been charged with assault, you may be confused or anxious about your future.
A criminal charge of any kind can make it difficult to find jobs or housing, and there is social stigma against individuals who have been charged with violent crimes. This is where an assault defense attorney can help.
It is important to choose an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who can defend you effectively.
With over 35 years of experience, Mark A. Perez, Attorney at Law, is an excellent choice as your assault lawyer.
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PROTECTING YOUR FUTURE AND YOUR LIBERTY
If you're facing criminal charges, don't gamble with your future. Call me today.
Choose an Assault Lawyer Who Is Respected In The Dallas Legal Community
I am assault defense attorney, Mark Perez, and I want to hear your story. I know the legal system is complex and can feel intimidating, and I’m here to help. Criminal charges can affect your freedom, employment opportunities, finances, and reputation. As an assault attorney, I can review your charges, explain your legal options, and defend your interests at every stage of the case. As a former prosecutor, I know how prosecutors think, and I use that knowledge to build stronger defense cases for my clients.
I have successfully tried countless violent crimes cases, and I have the experience you need to win your assault case. I am not afraid to go to court if that’s in your best interests and will work hard to achieve an acquittal or mitigate damage to your record and reputation.
Every assault case, whether it’s first degree assault, 2nd degree assault, 3rd degree assault, or a misdemeanor, begins long before a courtroom appearance. Early investigation, witness interviews, and evidence review can dramatically affect the direction of your case. By taking action early, you ensure that your assault attorney can identify inconsistencies, preserve important evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s narrative before they have a chance to fully develop it.
Don't Wait. Call Us Today!
Understanding Assault Charges
What is Assault in Texas?
So, what is assault under Texas law? Assault generally involves causing bodily injury, threatening bodily injury, or making physical contact that another person considers offensive or provocative. It is possible to mount an effective defense against assault charges. While this will depend on the facts of your particular situation, examples include claiming that the harm was unintentional, or that you were acting in self-defense.
In Texas, assault charges are defined broadly. Many situations that begin as arguments or misunderstandings may result in criminal accusations. We know that not every allegation reflects the actuality of what occurred, which is why an in-depth review of the facts is essential.
Is Assault A Felony?
Whether your assault is a misdemeanor or a felony charge will depend upon your relationship with the victim, domestic violence charges, your previous record, and the amount of harm caused. The charges may be increased on aggravated assault if a weapon is involved or the injury caused was very serious.
For example, a simple assault involving minimal contact may be charged as a misdemeanor. But allegations involving family members or an assailant with prior convictions can elevate the offense. Additionally, allegations involving dating partners may be charged as domestic violence offenses. These cases may come with additional consequences, such as protective orders. Understanding how your specific circumstances affect the charge is key to building a solid defense strategy.
What Is Aggravated Assault?
Aggravated assault under Texas law generally involves either causing serious bodily injury to a victim or using or displaying a deadly weapon during an assault. For example, allegations involving firearms or knives and claims of injuries that lead to long-term impairment are likely to lead to aggravated assault charges.
These cases are often charged as felonies. As a result, they have significantly higher penalties than misdemeanor assault. You should expect the prosecutor to pursue these charges aggressively, highlighting the importance of having an assault defense attorney who can develop a strategy that challenges the facts and legal elements of the case.
Potential Penalties for Assault in Texas
Assault penalties vary widely depending on the severity of the case and how the offense is charged. Understanding the potential consequences you face can help you appreciate what is truly at stake:
- Class C misdemeanor: You may pay a fine of up to $500.
- Class A misdemeanor: The maximum penalty at this level is a fine of up to $4,000 and up to one year in jail.
- 3rd degree assault (felony): You may spend up to 10 years in prison and pay up to $10,000 in fines.
- 2nd degree assault (felony): Potential penalties include up to 20 years in prison and fines as high as $10,000.
- First degree assault (felony): You may face life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
While the toughest penalties are reserved for felony offenses, you should talk to an assault attorney at any level. A conviction may have long-term effects on employment, housing, and your personal relationships.
Legal Defense Strategies by an Assault Attorney
Remember, being charged with assault does not automatically mean an assault conviction. A strong legal defense, crafted by an assault lawyer, can challenge the prosecution’s version of events and protect your rights.
Common defenses we may explore include:
- Self-defense: You acted to protect yourself from harm.
- Defense of others: You stepped in to protect other people.
- Lack of intent: The alleged incident was accidental and not
- False allegations: The claim is exaggerated or entirely fabricated.
- Insufficient evidence: There’s not enough evidence to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
The right approach for your case depends entirely on the facts, evidence, and circumstances involved. Your assault attorney will learn more about your case before developing a strategy.
Why Early Representation From an Assault Attorney Matters
Sometimes we end up seeing clients far later than we’d like. They try to handle their assault charges on their own, discussing their case with the very people who are prosecuting them. Or they rely on overburdened court‑appointed attorneys who may have limited time and resources to devote to their case. While court‑appointed lawyers work hard for their clients, they often juggle heavy caseloads, which can make it difficult to conduct thorough investigations, challenge evidence aggressively, or pursue every available defense strategy.
In doing so, clients make harmful admissions and limit their defense options. While we are happy to help clients at any stage of their assault case, the earlier we get involved, the better.
Early intervention can dramatically impact the outcome of your case. Your assault defense attorney can evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s evidence, identify weaknesses in their case, communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, and take steps to reduce or dismiss your charges.
Early intervention, in some cases, can even prevent formal charges from being filed and reduce the severity of the allegations against you.
You Need A Strong Assault Lawyer
Someone being accused of an aggravated assault offense can receive a prison sentence of up to 20 years. Violent crimes can be punished severely when the accused is convicted. Having a good assault lawyer could be the difference between freedom or years behind bars. The variables that affect the severity of the crime include injury to the victim, use of weapons, and the criminal record (if any) the accused has.
Other factors, such as the alleged victim being a public servant or someone in your family, can also increase potential penalties.
With my extensive experience as an aggressive assault defense lawyer, you have a much better chance of reaching a favorable outcome.
Don’t Settle For Less Than The Best
A conviction for assault can cost someone their rights, future, and reputation. Instead of hoping for minimal consequences by representing yourself or using a court-appointed lawyer, let a skilled assault defense attorney act on your behalf to pursue the outcome you deserve in your case.
From investigating the facts to challenging evidence and advocating in court, strong legal representation can make a massive difference in the outcome of your case.
If you are facing assault charges in Dallas, Texas, contact me today to get an experienced assault lawyer on your side. Se habla español. Call 214-752-0505 or send me an email to schedule your free initial consultation.
