What if I Am Charged with Family Violence for Acting in Self Defense?

 Posted on January 10, 2022 in Criminal Defense

When someone is being threatened or attacked, it is natural for him or her to want to defend himself or herself. Unfortunately, many family violence cases are “he said, she said” situations. The police arrive at a scene and do not know who is the aggressor and who is the victim. Sometimes, the wrong person gets arrested and charged with a crime.

If you or a loved one were charged with assault, domestic assault, violence against the family, or a related crime, contact a criminal defense lawyer for help right away.

Understanding Self Defense Laws in Texas

Self-defense is an “affirmative defense.” This means that the person accused of the offense agrees that he or she committed the offense, but his or her actions were justified.

Consider the following example: A man and his girlfriend are arguing and the girlfriend comes at the man with a knife. The man pushes her away, causing her to fall to the ground and suffer an injury. While it is true that the man did push the woman down and injure her, he only did so because his own safety was threatened.

The Texas Penal Code explains that a person may use force against another individual if he or she “reasonably believes” that the use of force is needed to protect him or her against the other person’s use or attempted use of unlawful force.

How Can I Prove Self Defense?

Proving that you acted in self-defense is no easy feat. Criminal defense lawyers may use many different types of evidence to argue your innocence. Witness testimony, documentary evidence, and past criminal behavior may all be used to support a claim of self-defense.

Contact a Frisco Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

Being convicted of a domestic violence-related offense like domestic assault can change your life forever. If you are facing criminal charges, contact the Collin County criminal defense attorneys at Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. for help. Our team can evaluate your case and help you build a powerful defense strategy against the charges.

The skilled lawyers at Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C. have secured “not guilty” verdicts and dismissals in many different types of criminal cases, including family violence cases. We understand that domestic violence cases are not always as straightforward as they may seem. Our team is committed to protecting our clients’ rights and fighting for their freedom.

Set up a confidential, free case assessment by calling us at 469-333-3333 today.

Source:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.9.htm