Assault Defense — Fort Worth & Tarrant County, TX
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Assault Charges in Texas Can Change Your Life. Fight Back with the Right Attorney.
In Texas, assault charges are classified as violent offenses — and even a misdemeanor assault conviction can result in jail time, a permanent criminal record, and consequences that affect your career, housing, and personal relationships for years to come. Felony assault charges carry even greater stakes. Attorney Chelsi McLarty begins building your defense from the moment you call. Whether the goal is to negotiate a dismissal, reduce the charges, or take your case to trial, she will advocate aggressively for the best possible outcome.
Types Of Assault Charges In Texas
Assault — Class A Misdemeanor (ABI)
Assault Bodily Injury (ABI) is the most common assault charge. It occurs when a person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another person. It is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
Assault — Family Member (ABI-FM)
Assault Bodily Injury against a family member (ABI-FM) is also a Class A misdemeanor on a first offense — but it carries additional consequences, including a federal prohibition on possessing firearms, and can be enhanced to a felony on subsequent charges.
Aggravated Assault — Second Degree Felony
When assault involves serious bodily injury or a deadly weapon, the charge is elevated to Aggravated Assault — a second-degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Against a public servant or in certain other circumstances, it becomes a first-degree felony.
Deadly Conduct
Discharging a firearm in the direction of a person or vehicle can result in a deadly conduct charge — a felony in Texas with serious penalties.
Consequences Beyond The Courtroom
- Loss of firearm rights (federal law, applies to family violence convictions)
- Background check flags that affect employment and housing applications
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Consequences for military service members
- Restraining or protective orders that restrict where you can go and who you can contact
How Attorney McLarty Defends Assault Cases
Attorney McLarty approaches every assault case with urgency — gathering witness statements, reviewing evidence, and assessing whether the prosecution can actually prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defense strategies include:
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Lack of intent (accidental contact is not assault under Texas law)
- Mutual combat or consent
- Challenging the credibility of witnesses
- Negotiating with the District Attorney for charge reduction or deferred adjudication
Facing Criminal Charges in Fort Worth? Don't Wait, Get Help Today.
The earlier you involve an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Attorney Chelsi McLarty offers free case consultations and is ready to go to work for you right away.
McLarty Law Firm
855 Texas Street,
Fort Worth, Texas 76102
Phone
Working Hours
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM