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Don’t let an assault charge ruin your future

On Behalf of | Apr 25, 2017 | Criminal Defense

In Texas, people do not take violent crimes lightly. If you are facing an assault charge, the potential consequences that accompany a conviction can be quite severe. Do not let an assault case ruin your future.

Proving guilt in a criminal case is the burden of the prosecuting attorney. To do this, he or she will have to prove that certain elements and supporting evidence exist in the case. What elements are required to prove guilt in an assault case?

Required elements

There are three elements that have to be present in an assault case in order for a prosecuting attorney to achieve a conviction. Element number one is threatening another individual with the purpose of causing fear of harm. Element number two is the physical act of carrying out the threat. Element number three is intent. If any of these are lacking in substance, it may be possible to achieve a case dismissal or a reduction in charges.

How can I defend myself?

Defending oneself against assault charges is not easy. However, there are a few different defense strategies that may work, depending on the details of your case. Some of these include:

  • Self-defense
  • Unintentional contact
  • Intoxication
  • Denial

With the help of a criminal defense attorney, you will be able to choose a course of action that will best benefit your case. For some, that will be to fight the charges in the hope of achieving case dismissals, and for others, that may be pursuing plea agreements in order to seek lighter sentencing.

Experience matters in violent crime cases

Depending on the circumstances surrounding your assault charge, a misdemeanor or a felony could be what you face. The consequences for either can be significant, often including jail time/imprisonment and fines, among others. As such penalties can have a drastic impact on your personal and professional life, having an experienced attorney at your side may prove invaluable.

Your legal representative will have the ability to fully investigate the finer details of your case by reviewing and questioning any evidence offered and gaining access to all available witness statements and police reports for examination. In taking this approach, it is possible that overlooked information may come to light and benefit your cause. Every case is different, so obtaining legal advice is critical.

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