Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in El Paso

What Is Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer?

Family violence (domestic violence) in Texas includes assault committed against a family member, household member, or dating partner. The charge can range from a Class A misdemeanor (simple assault) to a first-degree felony (aggravated assault with a deadly weapon against a family member). Even a misdemeanor family violence conviction has far-reaching consequences under both Texas and federal law. Texas prosecutors are trained to pursue family violence cases aggressively, even when the alleged victim does not want to press charges — the state, not the victim, decides whether to prosecute.

Penalties in Texas — What You Are Facing

A Class A misdemeanor family violence conviction carries up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000. A felony family violence conviction can carry years in state prison. Beyond the criminal penalties, a family violence conviction results in: a mandatory protective order prohibiting contact with the alleged victim; loss of the right to possess firearms under federal law (even for a misdemeanor conviction); significant effects on child custody and divorce proceedings; and potential immigration consequences for non-citizens. A second family violence conviction is automatically elevated to a felony.

The Legal Process in El Paso, Texas

Family violence cases in Texas involve both criminal proceedings and civil protective order proceedings. After an arrest for family violence, the court will typically issue an emergency protective order that prohibits you from contacting the alleged victim — which can affect your ability to return to your home and see your children. The criminal case proceeds through the standard process in El Paso County Court or district court, depending on the severity of the charge. Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively even without victim cooperation.

Defense Strategies That Work in El Paso Courts

Effective domestic violence defense strategies include: challenging the evidence of the alleged assault; presenting evidence of self-defense or defense of others; challenging the credibility of the alleged victim's account; presenting evidence of false accusations (which do occur in contentious family situations); working to modify or lift protective orders when appropriate; and coordinating the criminal defense with any related family law proceedings. Attorney Aaronson approaches these cases with both aggressive legal defense and sensitivity to the complex family dynamics involved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in El Paso