What Is Aggravated Assault in Texas?

 Posted on April 23, 2024 in Criminal Defense

Texas defines assault and aggravated assault differently, and these are two different criminal charges in the state. If you are facing an aggravated assault charge, it is important to understand the difference between aggravated and simple assault, including the penalties that aggravated assault carries. An experienced Texas aggravated assault defense attorney can help you further understand your rights and legal options concerning these charges.

Understanding Texas Aggravated Assault

Unlike ‘simple assault,’ which is generally a misdemeanor charge, aggravated assault in Texas can be penalized quite harshly. The Texas Penal Code defines aggravated assault as the following:

• Knowingly, recklessly, or intentionally causing serious bodily injury to another person, including the other person’s spouse
• Threatening a person or their spouse with bodily injury
• Initiating contact with another person physically, knowing or intending it to provoke or offend the person
• Using or showing a deadly weapon, such as a firearm, during the assault

The difference between simple assault and aggravated assault charges is the potential damages of each charge. While simple assault may cause bodily injury, aggravated assault cases ‘serious bodily injury,’ something that may indicate permanent disability, disfigurement, or an injury that leads to a significant risk of death.

How Do I Navigate Texas Aggravated Assault Charges?

In Texas, aggravated assault charges are typically classified as a second-degree felony, though additional factors can upgrade them to a first-degree felony. A second-degree felony in Texas carries a penalty of two to 20 years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000, while a first-degree felony carries a penalty of five to 99 years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.

If you are being charged with aggravated assault in Texas, you will need the help of an experienced assault defense lawyer to help you navigate these charges. Your lawyer can work with you to understand your case and form a defense that works to minimize the consequences of any aggravated assault charge.

Contact a Weatherford, TX Aggravated Assault Defense Lawyer

Facing aggravated assault charges in Texas is serious, and you need the assistance of a seasoned Parker County, TX aggravated assault defense attorney to navigate these charges. Attorney Soraya Joslin, P.C. is committed to protecting the rights of her clients, and she has almost 30 years of experience, making her uniquely suited to handle your criminal defense case. Contact Soraya Joslin, P.C. at 817-599-7005 for a free consultation.