The Stakes Are Highest When Facing Family Violence Charges
An accusation of Assault or Family Violence in Cedar Park, Texas, is one of the most damaging criminal charges you can face. Beyond the severe penalties of jail or prison time, a conviction carries a profound social stigma and triggers lifelong consequences that impact everything from your right to own a firearm to your ability to see your children. If you have been arrested by the Cedar Park Police Department or charged in Williamson County, you need an immediate and aggressive defense from an experienced Assault Family Violence Attorney Cedar Park.
At Gordon Law PLLC, we understand the complexities and high emotions inherent in these cases. We provide a vigorous, discrete, and ethical defense focused on protecting your rights, your freedom, and your family relationships. Your future is at stake—call us immediately for a free consultation.
Defining Assault and Family Violence Under Texas Law
Under the Texas Penal Code, Assault charges are broadly defined. An assault occurs if a person: (1) intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; (2) intentionally or knowingly threatens another with imminent bodily injury; or (3) intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with another that the person knows will be regarded as offensive or provocative.
The charge becomes “Family Violence” if the alleged victim is a family member, a member of the household, or a person with whom the defendant has a dating relationship, as defined by the Texas Family Code.
Penalties and the Devastating Impact of a Conviction
While a basic assault charge (causing bodily injury) is typically a Class A Misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine), a charge designated as Family Violence has dramatically enhanced penalties and consequences:
| Offense Level | Penalties and Consequences | Key Enhancement Factors |
| Assault Family Violence (1st Offense) | Class A Misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail). | A finding of “Family Violence” can lead to: Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs), mandatory counseling, and the permanent loss of firearm rights under Federal law (the Lautenberg Amendment). |
| Assault Family Violence (2nd Offense) | Third-Degree Felony (2 to 10 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine). | Any prior conviction for Family Violence elevates the next charge to a felony, even if the current incident is minor. |
| Assault/Family Violence with Choking/Strangulation | Third-Degree Felony (2 to 10 years in prison; up to $10,000 fine). | The act of impeding breath or circulation automatically enhances the charge to a felony, even for a first-time offender. |
| Aggravated Assault | Second- or First-Degree Felony (up to 99 years/life in prison). | Causing serious bodily injury or using a deadly weapon. |
Beyond the criminal courtroom, a Family Violence conviction can be catastrophic in civil court:
- Protective Orders: The court may issue a Protective Order that forces you to move out of your home and prevents you from going near the alleged victim or your children.
- Child Custody: A Family Violence finding is heavily weighted against a parent in all custody (Suit Affecting the Parent–Child Relationship) proceedings, often leading to limited or supervised visitation.
- Immigration Status: A conviction can be considered a “Crime of Moral Turpitude,” making it grounds for deportation or denial of citizenship.
Strategies for Defending Your Cedar Park Family Violence Case
Unlike other crimes, prosecutors in Williamson County rarely drop Family Violence charges simply because the alleged victim recants or expresses a desire to dismiss the case. They proceed in the interest of the State, making a strong, tactical legal defense essential. Your Criminal Defense Attorney Cedar Park TX must be prepared to challenge the State’s narrative aggressively:
- Self-Defense: The most common and powerful defense, arguing that the defendant’s actions were necessary to protect themselves or a third person from the alleged victim’s use or attempted use of force.
- False Accusation or Misidentification: In the emotional context of a family dispute, allegations can be exaggerated or fabricated. We investigate the relationship history, potential motives for a false report, and any history of related calls to the Cedar Park PD.
- Lack of Intent: Challenging the State’s burden to prove the action was intentional, knowing, or reckless. An accidental or unintentional contact should not constitute an assault.
- Challenging the Evidence: Thoroughly reviewing the 911 call recording, police body camera footage, medical records, and witness statements to find inconsistencies, discrepancies, or procedural violations that weaken the prosecution’s case.
Take Control of Your Narrative
The consequences of an Assault Family Violence charge demand an immediate and decisive legal response. The team at Gordon Law PLLC is prepared to launch a full investigation into your case, represent you vigorously at bond hearings, argue against unnecessary Protective Orders, and defend your rights in the Williamson County courts. We are dedicated to seeking the best possible outcome, which may include dismissal, reduction to a non-family violence offense, Deferred Adjudication, or acquittal at trial.
Do not let an accusation destroy your life. Contact us today to begin your defense.
Secure Your Free Consultation Today
If you are facing an Assault or Family Violence charge in the Cedar Park area, contact Gordon Law PLLC without delay. We offer free consultations to discuss your options and formulate a defense plan. We also provide flexible payment plans because your freedom should not be dependent on your finances.
Gordon Law PLLC 600 W. 28th Street, Suite #106A
Austin, Texas 78705
512-678-9333 (WEED)
Legal Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship. The information may not reflect the most current legal developments, and you should consult with a qualified attorney regarding your individual situation.
