Being charged with assault with serious bodily injury is a significant charge. The State of Texas usually deems these charges as a first-degree felony. If convicted, you could be facing significant jail time as well as potential fines.
There are strict guidelines regarding what constitutes assault with serious bodily injury. In some instances, these charges can be dismissed or reduced. However, it will take the skilled expertise of a seasoned Fort Worth Assault Lawyer. Furthermore, in some cases, people can be wrongly charged with this offense. This can be especially true in situations wherein a defendant was acting in self-defense of themselves or someone else.
Contrary to what many believe, assault with serious bodily injury does not require the use of a weapon. If you have assaulted someone while showing or brandishing a deadly weapon, that could result in more significant charges. In order for an assault to be assessed as causing “serious bodily injury,” it must meet certain criteria.
If you have been charged with assault with serious bodily injury, it is recommended that you connect with an experienced Fort Worth assault lawyer to give you the top chance of mounting a successful defense. At Cole Paschal Law, our attorneys move quickly to build your case and fight for a positive outcome in your case. Give us a call today to schedule your initial consultation.
How Texas Law Defines Assault With Serious Bodily Injury
The State of Texas defines assault with serious bodily injury as an act of aggression that causes or increases the risk of death, loss of limbs or organs, loss of other bodily functions, permanent damage to any part of the body, etc.
Working with a skilled Fort Worth assault lawyer can help to reduce these charges and potential consequences. However, it is not guaranteed. It is important to note that injuries may not initially seem serious, but may progress to something more serious or even deadly during the trial. In the case of this happening, prosecutors could seek to enhance charges. This is another reason why it is important to quickly connect with an experienced Fort Worth assault lawyer.
Potential Defenses for Assault With Serious Injury Charges
Not all people who are charged with assault with serious injury are actually guilty. Furthermore, everyone charged may not deserve long jail sentences and heavy fines. Everyone’s case is unique. Listed below are the most common key defenses for assault with serious injury charges.
- Self-Defense: Texas Law allows for its citizens to defend themselves or someone else from credible threats that could potentially cause bodily harm to yourself or others.
- Coercion or Duress: According to the Texas Penal Code 8.05, if you are forced to commit a crime due to threats of bodily injury to yourself or others by a third party, you may have a defense to assault with serious bodily injury charges.
- Temporary Mental Insanity: If someone spiked your drink, and it causes you to commit actions involuntarily. You may have a defense of temporary mental insanity.
It is important to note that there are other potential defenses. It will depend on the circumstances surrounding the assault with serious bodily injury. Furthermore, it will take the expertise of a skilled Fort Worth assault attorney to effectively mount any of the aforementioned defenses.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a Fort Worth Assault Attorney Today for Help
Those charged with assault with serious bodily injury are facing potentially detrimental consequences if convicted. Punishments can range from first to second-degree felony convictions. At maximum, that could lead to extensive jail sentences (including life), fines as well as orders to pay restitution, probation, loss of voting rights, and the ability to own a firearm, etc.
If you are facing charges of assault with serious bodily injury charges, it is imperative that you work with a knowledgeable Fort Worth assault attorney who can help you potentially have your charges reduced or dismissed. The type of legal representation that you have can greatly affect the outcome of your case. At Cole Paschall Law, we have almost 30 years of experience helping our clients navigate the criminal justice legal system successfully.
We’re on your side – all you have to do is pick up the phone to get started. We offer a free initial case evaluation, so do not delay in reaching out. Call our Fort Worth law office at (817) 477-4100 to schedule yours today.
