Domestic Violence Lawyers in Brazoria County

Dedicated to Guarding Your Rights, Future & Freedom

Domestic violence is a serious criminal offense, one that can have far-reaching consequences for you and your family. If you have been charged with domestic abuse, our Brazoria County domestic violence attorneys at Crenshaw & Purvis can provide you with the strong representation that you need. You don't want to find yourself battling these serious charges alone. We provide effective legal representation to residents of Angleton, Pearland, and the Greater Houston Metropolitan Area.

Consequences of a Domestic Violence Conviction

If you are convicted of domestic violence, your life may be forever changed. Your ability to work a public job may be negatively impacted, including jobs in teaching, nursing, and public office. If you are currently employed, you may lose your job, especially if your job description has you working with children or around weapons.

Since the conviction will stay on your criminal record, you may find it difficult to find any type of employment or obtain a public loan. Furthermore, during a child custody hearing, your criminal record can be used against you by the court. At Crenshaw & Purvis, our team of Brazoria County Criminal Defense attorneys want to give you the personalized counsel that you deserve.

What Is the Punishment for Assault on Family Members in Texas?

Under Texas law, this is the second most serious felony, bringing penalties which range from five years to life in prison, and fines up to $10,000. If you are being charged with Assault Against a Family Member/Domestic Violence, you are likely facing some very unique challenges that you might not face with other criminal charges. These challenges include:

• In most instances of Assault Against a Family Member, there are no witnesses to the alleged assault. Of course, this is not always true. An altercation between parties could occur with one or more family members or household members witnessing the event, but it is more likely that only the participants were present for the alleged assault.
• As noted, law enforcement will attempt to determine who the “primary aggressor” of the incident was by comparing injuries. In some cases, this may not provide a clear picture, as one of the parties may have acted in self-defense.

The prosecutor in the case must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt, or the defendant must plead guilty for a conviction to occur. Since being convicted of Assault Against a Family Member has such far-reaching effects. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the charges, it may be shown that the person bringing charges is not a family member, household member, or dating partner, that the accuser acted out of anger, spite, or jealousy, or that the accused was simply defending himself or herself.

Statute of Limitations for Domestic Violence in Texas

In Texas, the statute of limitations for domestic violence is two years since it is considered a misdemeanor. If the charge is continuous against a family member, then it becomes a felony which will then change the statute of limitations to three years.

Can You Expunge a Domestic Violence Charge in Texas?

In Texas, you cannot expunge domestic violence cases. There is a law in Texas that specifically states that deferred adjudication cases involving family violence can’t be sealed or expunged. The records, arrest, and case will stay on your record for life even if the case did not lead to a formal conviction.

Contact Us Today for Legal Support

There are many defenses that we can use to fight any and all domestic violence charges against you. Depending on your unique circumstances, our team of legal professionals will develop a plan of action that places your needs first. We understand how difficult this time can be for you and your family, which is why our attorneys are readily available for you.