DOMESTIC ABUSE ATTORNEY IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

One minute, you might be having a simple argument with a significant other or spouse, and the next, you might be in handcuffs in the back of a police car. Many domestic arguments escalate quickly to one person calling 911, and the police generally aim to arrest at least one party to remove them from the conflict. However, many people who are arrested in this situation soon face serious criminal charges of domestic violence.

Domestic violence charges and convictions can impact your life in many different ways. To make matters worse, law enforcement officers and prosecutors aggressively pursue arrests, charges, and convictions against accused domestic abusers. You want an attorney in your corner who will aggressively defend against these charges with the same tenacity as the prosecutor.

The law firm of Patrick L. Hancock defends clients facing a wide range of criminal charges, including those related to domestic violence in San Antonio, Texas. After an arrest, you should never delay seeking defense representation from an experienced and respected criminal defense lawyer. Contact the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock to discuss your charges and how we can help.

FAQ - SAN ANTONIO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY

WHAT ARE DIFFERENT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE TYPES (PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, SEXUAL, FINANCIAL, ETC.)?

Domestic violence can manifest in various forms, each with its own set of harmful effects. Understanding these types is crucial for recognizing and addressing the issue:

Physical Abuse: Includes hitting, slapping, pushing, or any form of physical harm. This is the most recognized form of domestic violence and can result in serious injuries.
Emotional Abuse: Involves behaviors like intimidation, manipulation, and constant criticism. Emotional abuse can be as damaging as physical abuse, leading to long-term psychological harm.
Sexual Abuse: Occurs when someone is forced into non-consensual sexual activity. This form of abuse is particularly traumatic and can have lasting effects on the victim's mental health.
Financial Abuse: Involves controlling a person's access to financial resources, limiting their ability to support themselves. This can include withholding money, preventing a partner from working or controlling all household spending.
Psychological Abuse: Includes threats, isolation, and controlling behaviors that affect the victim's mental well-being and self-worth.

The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock - San Antonio domestic violence attorney can help navigate the legal complexities associated with these types of abuse, ensuring victims receive the protection and justice they deserve.

HOW CAN I RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN MYSELF OR SOMEONE ELSE?

Recognizing the signs of domestic violence is the first step toward seeking help. The signs may not always be obvious, but they often include:

Physical Signs: Unexplained bruises, cuts, or injuries, often attributed to "accidents."
Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from friends and family, becoming unusually quiet or submissive, or displaying signs of depression or anxiety.
Financial Control: A partner controls all financial decisions, restricts money access, or forces financial dependence.
Isolation: The abuser may prevent the victim from seeing friends or family, limiting their social interactions.
Fear of Partner: A noticeable fear of upsetting the partner or visible discomfort when they are around.

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone else, it's important to seek help immediately. A San Antonio domestic violence lawyer can provide guidance on legal options and help protect your rights.

WHERE CAN I FIND HELP FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it's crucial to seek help immediately. There are numerous resources available, including:

Hotlines: National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) offers 24/7 support and can connect you with local resources.
Shelters: Many communities offer safe shelters for those escaping domestic violence. These shelters provide a safe space, counseling, and other support services.
Legal Aid: A San Antonio domestic violence attorney can offer legal support, such as filing protective orders or representing you in court.
Counseling Services: Both individual and group counseling are available for victims of domestic violence, helping them heal and move forward.
Medical Help: Seek medical attention if you've been physically harmed. Healthcare providers can also offer referrals to domestic violence resources.

These resources can provide the support you need to escape a dangerous situation and start the process of healing.

WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE (SHELTERS, HOTLINES, LEGAL AID, ETC.)?

Victims of domestic violence have several options available to them:

Shelters: Domestic violence shelters offer a safe and confidential space for victims. These shelters often provide essential services like food, clothing, and counseling.
Hotlines: National and local hotlines provide immediate support and can guide you to the appropriate resources. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) is a valuable resource.
Legal Aid: Legal assistance is available for obtaining protective orders, filing for divorce, or pursuing criminal charges. A San Antonio domestic violence attorney can help with these legal matters. Call the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock today.
Support Groups: Joining a support group can offer emotional support from others who have experienced similar situations.
Medical Assistance: Seek medical help if you've been injured. Healthcare professionals can also connect you with domestic violence services.

By utilizing these resources, victims can find the help they need to escape abusive situations and begin rebuilding their lives.

WHAT RIGHTS DO VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HAVE?

Victims of domestic violence have several rights designed to protect them:

Protection Orders: Victims can obtain protective orders that legally prohibit the abuser from contacting or approaching them.
Right to Safety: Victims have the right to feel safe in their own homes. If their safety is compromised, they can seek shelter or legal protection.
Right to Compensation: In some cases, victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the abuse.
Confidentiality: Victims' information is kept confidential to protect their privacy and safety.
Legal Representation: Victims have the right to legal representation. A San Antonio domestic violence lawyer can help uphold their rights and provide guidance through the legal process.

Understanding these rights is crucial for victims seeking to protect themselves and pursue justice. Get in touch with Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock for more information.

WHERE CAN I GET HELP IF I AM AN ABUSER?

If you recognize that you are an abuser, seeking help is a critical step toward breaking the cycle of violence. Resources are available to help you change:

Counseling: Individual counseling with a licensed therapist can help address the underlying issues contributing to abusive behavior.
Batterer Intervention Programs: These programs are specifically designed to help abusers recognize and change their behavior. Participation may be voluntary or court-ordered.
Support Groups: Joining a support group for abusers can provide accountability and guidance from others working to change their behavior.
Hotlines: The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can provide resources and referrals to local programs.
Legal Advice: If you are facing legal consequences due to your behavior, consulting with a San Antonio criminal law attorney is essential. They can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

Taking responsibility and seeking help is the first step toward creating a healthier, non-violent future.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN THE GREATER SAN ANTONIO

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CHARGES AND PENALTIES

Domestic violence is a form of assault. Assault means that you acted with violence or threatened violence and put another person in fear of actual or imminent harm. You do not have to hurt someone – or even touch them – to be charged with assault, as credible threats are enough to satisfy this charge. When assault happens against a spouse, former partner, member of your family, or similar relation, it is considered to be domestic violence or family violence.

Simple assault

"Simple" assault is an assault charge when the prosecutor is not alleging certain aggravating factors. Generally, in simple assault cases, the victim does not sustain any injuries but experiences offensive (not harmful) contact or the threat of harmful contact. In Texas, simple assault can be a Class C misdemeanor charge, which might mean a fine of $500. However, when assault cases involve special victims, the charges can increase.

If the alleged victim of an assault is a family member or romantic partner, the charge can be enhanced to a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction for this charge might include:

One year in jail
Up to $4,000 in fines
Probation

In addition to the above penalties, a Class A misdemeanor family assault conviction can mean:

You are banned from owning firearms or ammunition by federal law
You cannot seal your record of the conviction if you are placed on probation
If you are convicted of family assault a second time, you can face felony charges and up to ten years in state prison

Aggravated Assault

Assault charges are considered to be "aggravated" when the prosecutor alleges that you exhibited a deadly weapon at the time of the assault and/or intentionally caused serious bodily harm to the victim. Again, an aggravated charge can be escalated if it is considered to be an act of family violence.

The charges for this offense include:

If the offense involves both a deadly weapon and causes serious harm, the charge can be a first-degree felony. Possible penalties include five to 99 years in state prison and a $10,000 fine.
Other types of aggravated family assault, aside from the above offense, can be a second-degree felony. This means you can face two to 20 years in state prison and a $10,000 fine.

Whether you are charged with simple family assault or aggravated family assault, it is critical that you have the right defense to minimize the consequences you face. A domestic violence conviction can also affect issues like child custody, employment opportunities, and more.

PROTECTIVE ORDERS

In many cases, an alleged victim of domestic violence will seek a protective order against you. This will be handled in a separate case, though it is still highly important to have a defense attorney fighting against this order. Protective orders can force you to move from your home, keep you from seeing your children, restrict where you can go, and they have other strict terms with which you must comply. Violations of any terms can result in additional criminal charges and penalties.

Hearings for protective orders are different from criminal proceedings for assault. However, our domestic violence lawyer knows how to fight for your rights in both types of cases. It is important to mount an effective defense against a protective order, as this type of court order can negatively impact your life for years to come.

EXPERIENCED SAN ANTONIO CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CASES

PHYSICAL ABUSE

Physical abuse in domestic violence cases often includes acts like assault, aggravated assault, and causing injury to vulnerable individuals. Assault involves intentionally harming or making offensive contact with a family member. Aggravated assault is more severe, involving a deadly weapon or causing serious injury. Injury to a child, elderly, or disabled individual targets the most vulnerable, making it a critical issue. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, a San Antonio domestic violence attorney, can help navigate these complex and sensitive charges.

SEXUAL ABUSE

Sexual abuse in a domestic context can include both sexual assault and aggravated sexual assault. Sexual assault involves non-consensual sexual contact with a family member, while aggravated sexual assault includes additional factors like causing serious bodily injury or using a deadly weapon. These cases are extremely serious, and the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, a San Antonio domestic violence lawyer, can provide essential legal defense and support throughout the process.

VIOLATION OF A PROTECTIVE ORDER

Violation of a protective order occurs when someone disobeys a court-ordered protection mandate. This might include contacting or approaching a protected individual, which can lead to serious legal consequences. Interfering with a child custody order involves violating established custody or visitation rights. If you're facing these charges, a San Antonio criminal lawyer can offer guidance and defense, ensuring your rights are protected.

VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN (VAW)

Violence Against Women (VAW) encompasses various forms of abuse directed specifically at women, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. These crimes are taken very seriously in the legal system, with severe penalties for those convicted. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, a San Antonio domestic violence attorney, is crucial in defending against such charges, ensuring that all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined.

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE (GBV)

Gender-based violence (GBV) refers to violent acts directed at an individual based on their gender, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment. These crimes are often rooted in power imbalances and can have lasting impacts on victims. A San Antonio domestic violence lawyer specializes in defending individuals accused of GBV, providing a strong defense against these serious allegations.

INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE (IPV)

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) involves abuse or aggression that occurs in a romantic relationship, including physical, sexual, or psychological harm. IPV is a complex issue that can lead to serious legal consequences. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, a San Antonio criminal defense attorney, can offer the necessary legal support and representation, helping navigate the intricacies of these sensitive cases.

OTHER FORMS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE

Domestic abuse goes beyond physical harm, encompassing behaviors like threats, stalking, and strangulation. Threats involve credible claims of violence or harm, while stalking includes repeated harassment or following of a family member. Continuous violence against the family refers to a repeated pattern of abusive behavior, and strangulation, which impedes breathing or circulation, is particularly dangerous. An experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights if you're facing these charges.

CONTACT A SAN ANTONIO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY FOR ASSISTANCE RIGHT AWAY

Criminal defense lawyer Patrick L. Hancock knows that not all domestic violence allegations are legitimate, and we have seen many clients who were falsely accused. You should never let a domestic violence conviction ruin your life. Instead, seek assistance from a domestic violence defense lawyer who will fight for your rights and handle every aspect of your case. Call 210-223-8844 or contact us online to learn more about our criminal defense services as soon as possible.

SAN ANTONIO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LAWYER

Defending against domestic violence allegations in the San Antonio area