Dallas Violent Crime Attorney

Common Violent Crimes We Defend Against

According to recent data, Texas has one of the highest violent crime rates in the U.S., making it essential to know and exercise your rights after an arrest. Fortunately, our highly skilled defense lawyer has a wealth of knowledge and experience defending accused Texans. Common violent crimes we defend against include: 

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault involves intentionally causing serious bodily injury to another person or using a deadly weapon during an assault. In Texas, this is considered a second-degree felony punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. If the offense is committed against a protected individual, such as a public servant, the charges may be enhanced to a first-degree felony punishable by a maximum of life in prison. 

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly engages in a non-consensual sexual act with another person. This offense is a second-degree felony punishable by penalties ranging from 2-20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. However, aggravating circumstances can elevate charges to a first-degree felony, such as if the assault was committed against a child or a disabled person. 

Robbery

Robbery is defined as theft with the intent to obtain or maintain control of property through force or threatened force against another person. This offense is typically classified as a second-degree felony punishable by fines and 2-20 years in prison. However, if the robbery involves serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon, it can be charged as aggravated robbery, which is a first-degree felony punishable by up to 99 years of imprisonment.

Manslaughter

Manslaughter involves recklessly causing the death of another person. Unlike murder, manslaughter lacks the “intent to kill” element and instead focuses on reckless behavior leading to wrongful death. This crime is generally considered a second-degree felony punishable by fines and imprisonment. 

Murder

Murder involves knowingly or intentionally causing the death of another person. This offense is classified as a first-degree felony punishable by fines and up to life in prison. If the murder is committed under special circumstances, it can be charged as capital murder, which is punishable by life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. 

How Can I Defend Against a Violent Crime? 

Violent crimes can lead to harsh penalties if convicted. Securing a well-fortified defense is a must to avoid life-altering consequences in criminal court. Common defenses against violent crimes include: 

• Self-defense: In Texas, you have the right to use deadly force if necessary to protect against death, serious bodily injury, or kidnapping. If you acted in self-defense, your attorney may argue that you had a reasonable belief that force or violence was necessary to protect yourself from harm. 
• Insufficient evidence: In criminal cases, the prosecution is responsible for proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to convict you, your lawyer can fight to dismiss the charges.
• Mistaken identity: If you were mistakenly identified as the defendant, your attorney can gather evidence to establish your innocence. This may involve obtaining alibi witnesses, surveillance footage, and other evidence that may cast doubt on the prosecution’s case against you. 

When you call J Bowes Law, our lawyer can collaborate closely with you to determine an effective defense strategy to employ in your case.

Does Texas Have the Death Penalty? 

Yes. Texas has one of the highest execution rates in the country and still practices the death penalty for certain capital offenses, such as capital murder. Having a skilled defense lawyer on your side is crucial to protect your life and liberty.