People tend to think of assault as violent acts. However, that’s not always the case. In Texas, some forms of assault don’t even include physical harm. Austin-area assault cases have involved throwing Pop-Tarts at a store employee and spitting on another person.
Our team has deep experience handling all categories of Texas assault charges:
Simple Assault
The definition of simple assault can be extremely broad. Even threatening to harm someone can be enough for criminal charges. This can include:
- Causing bodily injury
- Threatening to injure another person
- Provoking physical contact
About 68% of assault cases in Travis County in 2024 have been resolved. These are typically Class A misdemeanors with penalties including up to a year in jail and fines of as much as $4,000. Almost 31% were convicted.
|
Outcome
|
Percentage of case results
|
|
Dismissals
|
62%
|
|
Acquittals
|
.01%
|
|
Convictions
|
30.9%
|
|
Deferred adjudication
|
4%
|
|
Other outcomes
|
3%
|
Simple assault charges can be upgraded to felonies if the victim is a public servant, older person, or family member. Our team of assault defense attorneys will closely examine the facts and fight for a charge reduction or dismissal.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault involves either:
- Serious bodily injury
- Use of a deadly weapon during the assault
Roughly 68% of aggravated assault cases in Travis County in 2024 have been resolved. These charges carry severe penalties, including two to 20 years in prison. Here are the case outcomes by percentage. About 32% were convicted.
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Outcome
|
Percentage of case results
|
|
Dismissals
|
38%
|
|
Acquittals
|
.05%
|
|
Convictions
|
32%
|
|
Deferred adjudication
|
15%
|
|
Other outcomes
|
14.5%
|
Our firm will build a strong, evidence-based defense to protect your rights.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence or family assault charges arise when you’re accused of harming a family or household member. Depending on the case and prior history, these charges range from misdemeanors to felonies. We understand that these cases involve complex dynamics. We provide legal defense and compassionate support.
Close to 80% of family assault cases in Travis County in 2024 have been resolved. Penalties vary based on the incident and any injuries. For first-time offenders, it’s typically considered a Class A misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of a year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. Repeat offenders will face a third-degree felony charge and face a prison sentence of two to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000. About 13% were convicted.
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Outcome
|
Percentage of case results
|
|
Dismissals
|
76%
|
|
Acquittals
|
.1%
|
|
Convictions
|
13%
|
|
Deferred adjudication
|
3%
|
|
Other
|
7%
|
Sexual & Aggravated Sexual Assault
In Austin, sexual assault is a second-degree felony. If threats, injury, or weapons are involved, the charge could be elevated to aggravated sexual assault, a first-degree felony. The stakes are high in assault cases, not only due to the potential for serious legal consequences but also due to the potential for social stigma. Early legal intervention is critical. We’re experienced in defending clients against these serious allegations.
Close to 87% of the cases of sexual assault involving adults in Travis County in 2024 have been resolved. Depending on the severity of the charges, the maximum penalty can range from two to 99 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. About 17% of defendants were convicted.
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Outcome
|
Percentage of case results
|
|
Dismissals
|
36%
|
|
Acquittals
|
2%
|
|
Convictions
|
17%
|
|
Deferred adjudication
|
17%
|
|
Other
|
8%
|
Aggressive Defenses Against Assault Charges
An arrest never equals guilt. You’re innocent unless proven guilty. And many assault charges stem from misunderstandings, exaggerations, insufficient evidence, or even a desire for retribution. Our Austin team will explore every possible defense, which may include:
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Mutual combat
- Necessity or duress
- Mistaken identity
- Lack of intent or knowledge
- False accusations
- Insanity or mental health defenses
Every case is unique. We will develop a customized defense strategy designed to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
What to Do If You Are Arrested for Assault in Texas
If you’ve been arrested, it’s critical that you take immediate steps to protect yourself:
- Do not speak to law enforcement without a lawyer: Anything you say can be used against you.
- Exercise your constitutional right to remain silent
- Request an attorney immediately
- Avoid contact with the victim, even if they live in the same household
- Comply with all protective orders the court has issued
- Do not discuss your case with others, especially in jail, where conversations are recorded.
Call Michael & Associates as soon as possible to begin your defense. We’re available 24/7.
Why Choose a Local Austin Assault Attorney?
Hiring a local defense attorney gives you a distinct advantage. Local experience matters. Our attorneys have deep roots in the Austin legal community and are committed to protecting the rights of our Central Texas neighbors. Our team has decades of experience and an established track record of success. All are known for their meticulous preparation and commitment to our clients.
We take pride in hiring attorneys with diverse skill sets. While all are tough criminal defense lawyers, our teammates have a wide array of legal experience. Our Austin team includes at least three former prosecutors. We also have a former judge and a former FBI agent. This wide range of experience helps us understand how the opposition will approach your case. We use this to develop a customized strategy.
At our firm, we:
- Understand Travis County court procedures and know the key personnel
- Have established relationships with prosecutors, judges, and court staff
- Offer easy in-person access for urgent meetings — we return calls and texts the same business day
- Are familiar with community-specific legal trends and jury dynamics
