Tips for Minimizing the Risk of an Assault Arrest Over the Holidays
It’s supposed to be a time of peace on earth, good will to all persons. Unfortunately, most domestic violence experts say, physical assault doesn’t take a holiday at Christmas and New Years. While the data is inconclusive about whether or not the holidays see a jump in the number of domestic abuse and assault claims, there are many factors present during the holidays that can kindle or fan the flames of an interpersonal dispute:
- The holidays are typically a time for spending more time with family. Family dynamics can be challenging and the emotional baggage that accompanies many family relationships can be a cauldron for conflict.
- Increasingly, the holidays put pressure on people to spend more money, whether it’s for gifts or for hosting and feeding others. Extra expenses can be a tremendous source of anxiety for many people, particularly if finances are already strained.
- The holidays often involve consumption of alcohol, which can often turn a minor disagreement into something far more dangerous
Protecting Yourself after an Arrest for Assault in Texas
If you’ve ended up with an assault charge this holiday season, the first thing you need to do is retain an experienced Texas criminal defense lawyer. You can also improve your chances of a better outcome by understanding the process. Here’s what you can expect to happen after you’ve been detained:
- You’ll appear before a judge — This will happen at some point within 48 hours of your arrest. You’ll learn about your right to an “examining” trial, where prosecutors must show probable cause for your arrest. The judge may also set bail, though you can be held without bail in certain circumstances.
- You’ll be charged — After the initial appearance before the judge, prosecutors will either charge you with assault or let you go. In Texas, assault can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, with varying degrees of each.
- You’ll be arraigned — Once charges are filed, you’ll appear in court again and you’ll have the opportunity to make your plea (guilty or not guilty). Either party may ask the court for more time (a continuance) to gather additional evidence.
- Your case will be resolved — At any time up to and during trial, you can enter into a plea bargain. This typically involves pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lesser penalty. However, if you are unable to resolve the charges through a plea bargain, the case will go to trial. If you have been charged with a misdemeanor, there will be 6 juror. For a felony trial, you’ll have 12 jurors.
Contact the Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys at Bailey & Galyen
At the law office of Bailey & Galyen, we provide a free initial consultation to every client. To set up an appointment with an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney, contact us by e-mail or call our offices at one of the convenient locations listed below. We will take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
