Lockhart Assault & Violent Crimes Lawyer
Being charged with assault or a violent crime in Lockhart, Texas, can be a potentially life-altering experience. The criminal justice system in Caldwell County takes violent offenses seriously and prosecutes them aggressively. Convictions can lead to prison time, steep fines, a permanent criminal record, and lasting damage to your reputation, employment, and personal life.
When you’re facing violent crime charges, you need more than just legal representation—you need a defense attorney who will fight strategically and communicate with you every step of the way. At The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway, our Lockhart assault & violent crimes defense lawyers stand by your side from start to finish, working to protect your freedom and minimize the impact on your life.
What Constitutes a Violent Crime in Texas?
In Texas, violent crimes generally involve physical harm or the threat of harm to another person. Common violent crimes we defend in Lockhart include:
- Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Family Violence
- Domestic Assault
- Child Endangerment
- Terroristic Threats
- Deadly Conduct
- Manslaughter
- Murder and Homicide
Violent crime charges can range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felonies, depending on the circumstances, the level of harm, the presence of a weapon, and the relationship between the parties involved.
Assault Charges in Lockhart
Assault in Texas is broadly defined and can occur even without physical contact. According to Texas Penal Code § 22.01, a person commits assault if they:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another
- Intentionally or knowingly threaten another with imminent bodily injury
- Intentionally or knowingly cause physical contact when the person knows or should reasonably believe the other will find it offensive
Assault can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, carrying up to 1 year in jail and up to $4,000 in fines if convicted. Texas law also recognizes felony assault, and charges can escalate quickly based on the victim’s identity, the use of weapons, or prior criminal history. For instance, if the assault involves a public servant, family member, or strangulation, penalties can include 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Aggravated Assault in Caldwell County
Aggravated assault, governed by Texas Penal Code § 22.02, involves serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon during the assault. This charge is typically a second-degree felony, but it can rise to a first-degree felony in cases involving family members, public officials, or certain aggravating factors.
Penalties for aggravated assault include:
- Second-Degree Felony: 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000
- First-Degree Felony: 5 to 99 years or life in prison, plus substantial fines
Aggravated assault is one of the most aggressively prosecuted violent crimes in Lockhart, and defending against these charges requires careful analysis of the evidence and the credibility of the alleged victim.
Other Violent Crimes We Defend Against in Lockhart
- Family Violence: Texas courts treat domestic violence cases with heightened scrutiny. A conviction can result in protective orders, firearm restrictions, and long-term consequences.
- Terroristic Threats: Even if no physical harm occurs, making threats that cause public fear or disrupt public services can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.
- Deadly Conduct: Reckless behavior that places others in imminent danger—especially when involving firearms—can lead to serious criminal charges.
Our defense strategies always depend on the unique facts of your case, but common approaches include challenging the credibility of the accuser, arguing self-defense or defense of others, asserting lack of intent or accident, demonstrating that the threat was not imminent or serious, and highlighting procedural mistakes made by law enforcement. Violent crime cases are often based on witness statements, physical evidence, and subjective interpretations of what happened. We meticulously investigate the details, consult with expert witnesses when necessary, and develop the strongest possible defense to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Protecting Your Future Starts Now
Violent crime charges can upend your life quickly. Besides long prison sentences, you could face protective orders that remove you from your home, loss of child custody rights, job loss or inability to find future employment, and a permanent felony record. The sooner you involve a skilled defense attorney, the better your chances of reducing or dismissing these charges. We will walk you through your options, keep you informed, and fight for your best outcome every step of the way.
Call Today for a Strong Defense Against Assault Charges in Lockhart
If you or someone you love has been charged with assault or another violent crime in Lockhart, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The prosecution is already building its case—start building your defense now. Contact The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway today to schedule a confidential consultation. We are ready to fight for you.
