Facing a felony assault charge in Texas is one of the most serious legal challenges a person can experience. A conviction can significantly alter the course of your life, leading to severe criminal penalties and lasting personal consequences. Even after you have served your sentence, the long-term impact can follow you for years, affecting your freedom, job opportunities, and relationships.
At Peek Law Group, our San Antonio criminal defense attorneys understand what is at stake when you are accused of a violent crime. We use our experience and legal skill to protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.
Understanding Felony Assault Charges in Texas
Texas law divides assault offenses into several categories based on the circumstances of the alleged incident and the level of harm caused. Simple assault, which typically involves minor physical contact or threats, is often a misdemeanor.
However, when an assault results in serious injury, involves a weapon, or is committed against specific individuals, it can be charged as a felony.
Common examples of felony assault charges in Texas include:
- Aggravated Assault: Causing serious bodily injury to another person or using or exhibiting a deadly weapon during the assault.
- Assault on a Public Servant: Causing bodily injury to a police officer, firefighter, or other government employee performing their duties.
- Domestic Violence Assault with Prior Convictions: Committing assault against a family member or household member after a previous conviction for family violence.
- Assault Involving Strangulation or Impeding Breathing: A serious offense often charged as a third-degree felony.
Each case is unique, and penalties can vary depending on the specific facts, the nature of the injuries involved, and the defendant’s prior criminal history.
The Criminal Penalties for Felony Assault
The penalties for felony assault in Texas depend on the degree of the offense. Felonies are categorized as third-degree, second-degree, or first-degree crimes, with escalating levels of punishment.
- Third-Degree Felony Assault may result in 2 to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
- Second-Degree Felony Assault carries a potential prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and up to $10,000 in fines.
- First-Degree Felony Assault can lead to 5 to 99 years or life in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Beyond incarceration and fines, individuals convicted of felony assault in Texas often face additional conditions such as probation, community service, anger management classes, and restitution to victims.
A felony conviction also becomes part of your permanent criminal record, which can create serious obstacles for employment, education, housing, and professional licensing. Once convicted, it is tough to remove or seal the record, making early legal defense critical.
The Long-Term Consequences of a Felony Conviction
While prison time and fines are the most visible penalties, the collateral consequences of a felony assault conviction can be just as damaging. Felons in Texas lose several critical civil rights, including the right to vote while incarcerated, the right to serve on a jury, and the right to possess firearms.
Other lasting effects may include:
- Difficulty finding employment or obtaining professional licenses.
- Loss of eligibility for certain housing or federal assistance programs.
- Strained family relationships and reputational harm.
- Immigration consequences for noncitizens, including detention or deportation.
These consequences often extend far beyond the courtroom. That is why it is essential to work with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who can build a strong case and pursue alternatives to conviction whenever possible.
Take Immediate Action to Protect Your Future
A felony assault charge is not the same as a conviction, and you still have rights and options. The sooner you involve a qualified defense attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Delaying legal representation can allow prosecutors to build a stronger case against you.
If you or a loved one is facing felony assault charges in Texas, contact Peek Law Group in San Antonio at (512)-982-4062 or fill out our online form immediately. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys can explain your rights, guide you through the legal process, and fight to protect your future and your freedom.
