Continuous Violence Against the Family Defense
Domestic assault is usually a misdemeanor offense in Texas, but alleged offenders who have been previously convicted of assault family violence can be charged with a felony family violence charge if accused of committing a new domestic assault.
The crime of continuous violence against the family is defined as committing two or more domestic assaults within a period of 12 months. According to the statute, members of the jury are not required to agree unanimously on the specific conduct in which the alleged offender engaged that constituted assault involving family violence. Instead, a jury only needs to unanimously agree that the alleged offender engaged in conduct that constituted assault family violence two or more times in a period of 12 months or less.
Lawyer for Continuous Violence Against the Family in Houston, TX
If you were arrested in the Houston area for continuous violence against the family, it is in your best interest to immediately retain experienced legal counsel. James G. Sullivan and Associates aggressively defends clients accused of domestic violence offenses all over the Greater Houston area, including Katy, Cypress, Jersey Village, Tomball, Spring, Humble, Pasadena, and many other nearby communities.
Houston criminal defense attorneys James G. Sullivan and Associates can fight with the goal to get these criminal charges dismissed or reduced. Call (281) 546-6428 today to take advantage of a free, confidential consultation that will let our lawyers provide an honest and thorough evaluation of your case.
Continuous Violence Against the Family Charges in Harris County
Under Texas Penal Code § 25.11(a), a person can be charged with continuous violence against the family if he or she intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to any person or persons whose relationship to or association with the accused is described by the following statutes:
- “Dating Relationship” (Texas Family Code § 71.0021) means a relationship between individuals who have or have had a continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on consideration of the length of the relationship, the nature of the relationship, and the frequency and type of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
- “Family” (Texas Family Code § 71.003) includes individuals related by consanguinity (one is a descendant of the other or they share a common ancestor) or affinity (they are married to each other or the spouse of one of the individuals is related by consanguinity to the other individual), individuals who are former spouses of each other, individuals who are the parents of the same child, without regard to marriage, and a foster child and foster parent, without regard to whether those individuals reside together.
- “Household” (Texas Family Code § 71.005) means a unit composed of persons living together in the same dwelling, without regard to whether they are related to each other.
Continuous Violence Against the Family Punishment in Texas
Continuous violence against the family is classified as a third degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
James G. Sullivan & Associates | Houston Continuous Violence Against the Family Lawyer
Were you recently arrested for continuous violence against the family in southeast Texas? You should always consult with a lawyer before talking with the authorities. Contact James G. Sullivan and Associates for a free, confidential consultation.
James G. Sullivan and Associates are experienced criminal defense attorneys in Houston who represent clients in communities throughout Harris County, Fort Bend County and Montgomery County. They can review your case and explain your legal options. They have a proven history of fighting to get the best result for clients accused of family violence. Call (281) 546-6428 for a free consultation.
