Domestic violence is a continuing problem in Texas and around the nation. To combat this in Texas, penalties are often greater for domestic violence prosecutions than violent actions against other non-family members. Furthermore, additional restrictions on bail policies and firearm ownership for domestic violators are specifically geared to prevent future acts of domestic violence from happening.
Yet, despite our best efforts, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that approximately twenty people are abused by a domestic partner in the United States each minute. Children are the most vulnerable family members in these situations, often leaving them to perpetuate the cycle of abuse.
Texas Recognizes Several Forms of Domestic Violence
While most of us think of physical abuse when we think of domestic violence, in Texas, we recognize several different types of domestic violence. In addition to physical abuse, we also consider psychological, economic, sexual, emotional, and technological abuse under criminal charges.
Furthermore, domestic violence actions can be broadly interpreted. Anyone facing domestic violence charges should get the immediate legal assistance of a Houston domestic violence attorney to understand their potential consequences and their rights.
Physical Abuse
While physical abuse may seem easy enough to understand, it does not always mean physical violence resulting in bodily injury. Withholding medical treatment or forcing behavior that can potentially be physically harmful can also be regarded as physical domestic abuse.
Psychological Abuse
Psychological abuse can be any behavior that is threatening, intimidating or causes fear in others. This can also include threats of self-harm, harming pets or property, preventing someone from leaving, or keeping someone away from friends and family.
Emotional Abuse
Emotional abuse can manifest in insulting, humiliating, and critical behavior. While these behaviors are considered abusive, they are very difficult to prove until there are other forms of abuse present.
Economic Abuse
When one individual is forced to be financially dependent on the other, this can be considered economic abuse. This can take the form of withholding funds, preventing the other partner from going to work or receiving an education, creating debt, or spending a partner’s savings, thereby limiting resources available to them.
Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse can be broadly interpreted. While it includes things such as rape or sexual assault, it can also include things such as forcing sexually demeaning acts or pressuring a partner into an abortion.
Technological Abuse
Technological abuse can include using social media and texts to harass, intimidate or bully a partner. These charges are becoming more common as technology becomes more prevalent in our lives.
Who Can File Domestic Violence Charges in Texas?
While domestic violence charges are most often associated with intimate partners and spouses, Texas law allows others to file domestic violence charges, including
- Other blood relatives
- Other household members
- Past or present dating partners
- Foster parents and children
What Should You Do If You Are Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Texas?
Penalties for domestic violence can be severe, ranging from one year in jail for a Class A misdemeanor to 99 years in prison for a first-degree felony. A domestic violence conviction can not only result in time behind bars and other serious penalties but also leave you with a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life. It’s important if you are facing these charges to get experienced legal representation as soon as possible.
If you are facing domestic violence charges, the quality of your legal defense can make a huge difference. The skilled criminal defense attorneys at Vinas & Graham, PLLC, have dedicated their careers to protecting the rights of those who have been charged with crimes in Texas and ensuring their best possible outcome. Call us at (713) 229-9992 or contact us via our website contact form to schedule a confidential consultation. Learn more about our firm on our Facebook page.
