Having been accused of (or charged with) a violent crime can be a terrifying and stressful time. You may not know where to turn for help. If you have been arrested or are being investigated for a violent crime such as assault or murder, you do not have to go through this alone. Your Fort Worth murder and assault lawyer can be by your side, offering advice and help during this troubling time. We have been defending violent crime cases for many years and know how to build a solid case in your defense.
Call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today for a no-obligation complimentary consultation and find out how we can help you: (214) 696-9253.
What You Need to Know About Violent Crimes in Texas
Texas law considers violent crimes an extremely serious offense. Violent crimes generally encompass variations of any of the following:
- Murder
- Robbery
- Rape
- Assault
Aggravated assault and robbery have been some of the most common violent crimes in Texas’s past, according to the Texas Crime Analysis from the Texas Department of Public Safety covering the years 1993–2007. Being convicted of murder in Texas can come with a lengthy prison sentence. In some cases, a defendant could face execution.
What You Need to Know About Assault Charges
An assault can take place if another person as much as perceives that you are intending to cause them physical harm. Threatening someone with a weapon, such as a gun or a knife, can constitute an assault.
Under Sec. 22.02 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits an offense if they knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another, or threaten another with bodily injury. This also includes knowingly or intentionally causing physical contact with another, knowing that the other will perceive this as offensive or provocative.
In other words, an assault can be defined as:
- Causing someone physical harm
- Threatening them with physical harm
- Making contact that they perceive as a threat
Section 22.02 of the Texas Penal Code distinguishes between simple assault and aggravated assault. Aggravated assault typically includes causing serious bodily harm or injury to another person or using and threatening with a deadly weapon. A conviction for aggravated assault can result in a first, second, or third-degree felony. Punishment can be extensive and, depending on the severity of the charge, include extended jail time as well as fines.
A conviction of aggravated assault can have a devastating effect on your life for decades to come. If you are charged with assault in Texas, help is available. You can speak to a criminal defense attorney for advice and legal representation. Contacting the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can help you understand the legal context regarding any charges or convictions you are facing.
What You Need to Know About Murder Charges
A homicide is defined by Section 19.01 of the Texas Penal Code as “causing the death of an individual”. While there can be many different kinds of homicide, two charges are defined as criminal homicide cases: murder and manslaughter. Section 19.0 further divides murder charges into “capital murder” and “murder,” with punishments differing for each.
Capital murder is the more serious offense of the two and can invoke the death penalty. Section 19.03 of the Texas Penal Code states that capital murder includes cases such as killing a law enforcement officer, committing a contract killing, or killing several persons, among others.
Legal representation can be pivotal when you have been charged with murder. The laws surrounding murder in Texas can be complicated to understand for any layman. Having a professional and dedicated Fort Worth murder and assault lawyer could make the difference between life and death in a capital murder case.
If you have been accused of or charged with the crime of murder, you may want to act quickly and speak to a law firm. In the worst case, you could face a life in prison without parole—or even the death penalty. A well-prepared defense can help you when facing this serious and devastating charge. A lawyer will make your murder or assault defense a priority. Call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg to speak to a member of our team today at (214) 696-9253.
A Fort Worth Murder and Assault Lawyer Can Help You
Having been charged with any violent crime (particularly aggravated assault or murder) is undoubtedly a frightening and life-changing experience. You may not know what to do. Speaking with a Fort Worth murder and assault lawyer can help you in several ways. At the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, our thorough understanding of violent crime and the Texas legal system means that you will be in good hands.
Handling your own case (while possible in theory) can be a complex and extremely challenging task. Criminal law is a vast subject, and it can be difficult for one who is not a professional attorney to be familiar with all the laws and regulations regarding assault and murder charges. Each case is unique, and we have the legal knowledge—as well as the time and resources—to deal with all aspects of your case.
A Fort Worth murder and assault lawyer can help you with complex charges and fight for your rights if it comes to a trial in court. We can negotiate with prosecutors, which can potentially lead to reduced charges and lesser sentences. A prosecutor can greatly influence a case. We can help you get justice by collecting evidence, consulting with forensic experts, and gathering witnesses to further your case.
Your Fort Worth murder and assault lawyer can be by your side, providing professional support and an objective legal opinion—which can also help you deal with any fear and anxiety a violent criminal charge might invoke.
An attorney from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg will know the applicable Texas assault and murder laws inside and out. Call us today at (214) 696-9253 to make an appointment for a free consultation and evaluation of your case.