Assault & Family Violence

Assault & Family Violence Defense in Texas

Allegations of assault or family violence in Texas are extremely serious and can have life‑changing consequences. These cases rarely involve strangers — they almost always arise between people who know and care about each other. Arguments between spouses, partners, family members, or people in dating relationships can escalate quickly, and once law enforcement becomes involved, the situation often moves out of the family’s control.

In Texas, when police respond to a domestic disturbance, someone is often arrested even if the parties later calm down or do not want to press charges. What may have been a private disagreement can immediately become a public criminal case, and family violence findings can carry long‑term consequences, including:

• Loss of firearm rights
• Protective orders
• Difficulty obtaining housing or employment
• Enhanced penalties for any future allegations

Even a misdemeanor family violence conviction creates a permanent record and cannot be sealed. As an Austin assault lawyer, Josh understands how quickly these cases escalate — and how aggressively they are prosecuted.

Common Assault & Family Violence Charges in Texas

Josh represents clients facing the full range of assault‑related offenses, including:

• Assault Causing Bodily Injury
• Assault by Contact
• Assault Family Violence (Class A Misdemeanor)
• Assault Family Violence – Impeding Breath/Circulation (Felony)
• Aggravated Assault (Deadly Weapon or Serious Bodily Injury)
• Assault With a Deadly Weapon
• Terroristic Threat (including family violence context)
• Violation of Protective Order

Texas law does not use the term “battery” — assault covers both the threat of harm and the actual physical contact.

Understanding “Family Violence” Under Texas Law

Texas defines “family violence” broadly. It can involve:

• Spouses or ex‑spouses
• Dating partners
• Individuals living together
• Parents and children
• Siblings or other relatives
• Co‑parents

A family violence designation can be added even when the alleged injury is minor or when the accuser does not want to pursue charges.

Even a misdemeanor family violence conviction creates a permanent record and cannot be sealed.

How Josh Defends Assault & Family Violence Cases

Attorney Josh Saegert understands the emotional and legal complexity of these cases. He has extensive experience challenging:

• Inconsistent statements
• Lack of physical evidence
• Self‑defense claims
• Mutual combat situations
• Unreliable 911 calls
• Violations of constitutional rights

Josh works to protect your record, your rights, and your future — whether the goal is dismissal, reduction, or a strategic resolution that avoids long‑term consequences.