Comprehensive Guide to Criminal Charges in Austin, Texas: Assault/Family Violence, DWI, Drug Charges, and Misdemeanors
Facing a criminal charge in Austin, Texas can be overwhelming, confusing, and frightening. Whether you have been arrested for Assault/Family Violence, Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), a drug-related offense, or another misdemeanor, the consequences can deeply affect your life, your career, and your future opportunities. The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC understand the pressure you are under and provide strategic, client-centered representation designed to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
Gordon Law PLLC is located at 600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A Austin, Texas 78705, and the firm offers free consultations and flexible payment plans. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Austin or surrounding counties, call 512-678-9333 (WEED) to speak with an attorney today.
This comprehensive guide explains how Texas law treats Assault/Family Violence, DWI, drug charges, and misdemeanors, including common penalties, potential defenses, and the strategies the attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC use to help protect clients.
Assault and Family Violence Charges in Texas
Assault and family violence allegations are treated very seriously under Texas law—especially in Travis County, where prosecutors often pursue these cases aggressively. Even misdemeanor-level charges can carry long-term consequences, including limits on firearm rights, protective orders, and future employment restrictions.
What Qualifies as Assault or Family Violence?
Under Texas Penal Code § 22.01, a person commits assault if they:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another person;
- Threaten another person with imminent bodily injury; or
- Cause physical contact with another that is offensive or provocative.
When the alleged victim is a family member, household member, or someone in a dating relationship, the charge becomes Assault Family Violence, which carries enhanced penalties.
Penalties for Assault/Family Violence
Penalties vary based on whether physical injury occurred and whether the accused has prior convictions.
- Class C misdemeanor (offensive contact): Fine up to $500
- Class A misdemeanor (bodily injury): Up to 1 year in jail and $4,000 fine
- Felony Assault/Family Violence: 2–10 years in prison if there is a prior family violence conviction or allegations of choking/strangulation
Common Defense Strategies
The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC investigate the case thoroughly to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence. Common strategies include:
- Challenging inconsistent or unreliable statements
- Showing lack of intent or self-defense
- Challenging the credibility of witnesses
- Demonstrating no physical injury occurred
- Highlighting evidence suppressed or overlooked by police
Because many family violence allegations arise during emotionally charged situations, the facts are often more complicated than police reports suggest.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Austin, Texas
Austin is one of the most heavily policed areas in the state for DWI enforcement. A DWI arrest can affect your driver’s license, your employment, and your freedom.
Texas DWI Law and Penalties
A person commits DWI if they operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated—meaning they do not have normal use of mental or physical faculties, or they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher.
Penalties vary depending on the number of prior offenses:
- First DWI (Class B misdemeanor): 3–180 days in jail, up to $2,000 fine, license suspension
- Second DWI (Class A misdemeanor): 30 days to 1 year in jail, up to $4,000 fine
- Third DWI (Third-degree felony): 2–10 years in prison, up to $10,000 fine
ALR Hearings and License Suspension
After a DWI arrest, the state may suspend your license unless you request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing within 15 days. The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC handle both the criminal and administrative sides of DWI cases.
DWI Defense Strategies
Gordon Law PLLC examines each part of the arrest to determine the strongest approach. Strategies may include:
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
- Contesting field sobriety test procedures
- Reviewing the reliability of breath or blood test results
- Identifying police mistakes or constitutional violations
DWI cases are highly technical, making experienced legal representation essential.
Drug Charges in Austin and Central Texas
Drug laws in Texas are strict, and even low-level possession charges can lead to lasting consequences. Travis County, however, often allows alternatives to conviction for qualified individuals—if the case is handled properly.
Types of Drug Charges
Common drug-related charges include:
- Possession of marijuana
- Possession of controlled substances (cocaine, meth, ecstasy, prescription drugs)
- Possession with intent to deliver
- Manufacturing or delivery of controlled substances
Penalties for Drug Offenses
Penalties depend on the type and amount of the substance. Examples include:
- Possession of marijuana < 2 oz: Class B misdemeanor, up to 180 days in jail
- Possession of Penalty Group 1 drugs (e.g., cocaine): Felony charges ranging from state jail felonies to first-degree felonies
- Possession of prescription medication without a prescription: Ranges from misdemeanor to felony
Defenses and Strategies for Drug Cases
The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC frequently use defenses such as:
- Illegal search and seizure challenges
- Contesting possession or knowledge
- Questioning the reliability of lab testing
- Seeking dismissal through treatment-based or diversion programs
Many drug cases involve constitutional issues related to traffic stops, searches, or warrants—areas where legal skill can make a significant difference.
Misdemeanor Charges in Austin, Texas
While misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies, they still carry potential jail time, fines, probation, and long-term consequences. In Austin, common misdemeanors include:
- Theft under $100 or $750
- Public intoxication
- Criminal trespass
- Reckless driving
- Disorderly conduct
- Minor drug possession
Misdemeanor Penalties
Misdemeanors in Texas fall into three categories:
- Class A: Up to 1 year in jail and $4,000 fine
- Class B: Up to 180 days in jail and $2,000 fine
- Class C: Fine up to $500
How Gordon Law PLLC Handles Misdemeanor Cases
Even a minor conviction can affect employment, housing, licensing, and educational opportunities. Gordon Law PLLC fights to:
- Seek dismissal when possible
- Negotiate reductions or diversion programs
- Challenge insufficient evidence
- Protect eligibility for expunction or nondisclosure
For many clients, the goal is not just avoiding jail—but preserving future opportunities.
Why Choose Gordon Law PLLC?
The attorneys at Gordon Law PLLC offer:
- Extensive experience with Austin-area courts, prosecutors, and judges
- Strategic defense tailored to each client’s goals
- Regular communication and a supportive, client-first approach
- Aggressive representation when charges threaten your freedom or future
- Free consultations and flexible payment plans
The firm understands how life-changing criminal charges can be and is committed to guiding clients through every step of the process with clarity, respect, and determination.
Contact Gordon Law PLLC
If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Austin or the surrounding areas, contact:
Gordon Law PLLC
600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A
Austin, Texas 78705
Phone: 512-678-9333 (WEED)
Free consultations and flexible payment plans are available to help you get the representation you need.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a qualified attorney.
