A DeSoto assault lawyer is your best resource if facing an arrest, allegations, or charges related to a physical altercation or threats. The consequences of an assault conviction in Texas can be significant. When possible, the best outcome in these cases occurs when prosecutors never file or drop the charges, or you receive a sentence based on relatively minor misdemeanor charges.
A DeSoto criminal defense lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can help you fight for a favorable outcome in your case. We have the experience to develop a strong defense and represent your best interests. Contact us today to learn more. We have someone available to take your call 24/7.
What Defines ‘Assault’ in DeSoto, Texas?
Assault is illegal under Texas state law, Texas Penal Code § 22.01. Under this law, assault occurs when one party intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly:
- Causes bodily injury
- Threatens another with bodily injury
- Creates physical contact the victim will most likely consider offensive or provocative
It is important to know that all assaults occur intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly. This often plays a critical role in the defense of these cases. You cannot, while acting carefully, accidentally assault someone. Self-defense is another common defense for those accused of this crime.
For a conviction, prosecutors must show you acted intentionally to threaten or harm someone else. This requires evidence that often includes:
- Eyewitness testimony
- Relevant medical records and documentation of injuries
- Video footage of the incident
- Reports law enforcement filed, including the arresting officer
What Are the Consequences of a DeSoto Assault Conviction?
When someone faces assault charges in Dallas County, the facts and circumstances that led to their arrest will play a significant role in the potential sentence if convicted. This is because an assault charge can vary in severity from a Class C misdemeanor to a first-degree felony.
When charged with a misdemeanor, the sentence could range from a fine of up to $500 (Class C misdemeanor) to up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine (Class A misdemeanor). The sentence for a conviction based on a simple assault, such as a threat or minor scrapes and bruises, would likely fall into this range.
More serious assaults, such as aggravated assault that causes serious injuries or involves a gun or knife, will likely call for a felony charge. A significant range of possible sentences exists for those convicted of a felony offense. The courts rate these charges based on the circumstances. They could include:
- State jail felony
- Third-degree felony
- Second-degree felony
- First-degree felony
The potential sentences for a felony conviction could range from six months (180 days) to two years in state jail to between five and 99 years in prison. All felony convictions come with a fine of up to $10,000.
Building a Defense Based on a DeSoto Assault Allegation
When a criminal defense attorney from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg handles an assault case in DeSoto, we understand the role facts play in the case’s outcome. Each case’s circumstances are unique, so we must gain as much information about them as possible to develop the strongest possible defense.
Depending on the circumstances, our team could present evidence to show:
- Our client was not involved in the assault.
- Our client has an alibi for the time of the altercation.
- They misidentified our client.
- The altercation never occurred.
- The altercation occurred, but it was self-defense.
- The police mishandled the investigation, obtaining evidence illegally.
- The police violated our client’s rights.
- The injuries suffered were minor.
- The victim suffered no injuries.
- Our client did not act intentionally or recklessly.
Our Team From the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg Are Here to Help
At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, our team represents those accused of assault in DeSoto and elsewhere in Dallas County. We know the judges, prosecutors, and others involved in these cases. For more than 30 years, Attorney Randall B. Isenberg has served those accused of committing crimes in and around Dallas.
In addition, he previously served as a senior chief felony prosecutor and state district trial judge. He understands what the prosecution needs to do to develop a strong case against you and the evidence the judge will want to see before proceeding. He knows because he’s been on the other side of it.
As you can see from our case results, our team handles criminal defense cases every day. We fight to get the proper outcome for our clients, which might be possible by:
- Convincing the prosecutors not to press charges against you
- Presenting strong evidence to convince the court to dismiss charges
- Using pretrial motions to have crucial evidence barred from court
- Offering a compelling case for self-defense or innocence at trial
- Negotiating a plea deal for a lesser charge or lighter sentence
We have someone available now to discuss your case with you. We can answer your questions about the criminal justice system, your next steps, how we approached similar cases, and our services. Call us after your arrest or as soon as you learn about the allegations against you. We can speak with you on the phone, meet you after your arrest, or talk via video phone.
Speak to Our Criminal Defense Team About Your DeSoto Assault Case Today
The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can take your call today. We represent those accused of assault and other criminal activity in DeSoto, greater Dallas County, and nearby areas. We may be able to help you resolve your case.
Contact us by phone or use our online contact form. We have a team member available now.
