Were You Charged With Assault?
There are two sides to every story. In cases involving criminal assault charges, many defendants have been convicted simply because their lawyers didn’t listen to or adequately present their sides of the story. People make errors and mistakes of fact, and they use violence in self-defense, but if your attorney does not fight for your side of the story, your case will not end well. You need an attorney who will listen to you, understand what really happened and fight for you.
I am Jeremy Sylestine, a criminal defense attorney serving clients in Austin and the surrounding areas of Texas. Before starting my law firm, Sylestine Law PLLC, I spent more than 15 years as a prosecuting attorney. In addition to giving me significant knowledge of how prosecutors handle these cases, it also gave me a wealth of experience handling felony aggravated assault charges, domestic violence and child abuse cases. I know the law regarding assault and other violent crime charges, and I know how to defend you successfully against the charges you are facing.
Defenses Against Assault Charges
There are numerous ways to defend against assault charges. The first approach I take, as with any criminal case, is to look at the details surrounding the investigation, arrest and charges. There are numerous rules regulating what the authorities can and can’t do. If there are instances of legal violations or violations of your constitutional rights, it could result in the suppression of evidence.
Another important approach to defending clients against assault charges involves fighting the case on the merits. There are times when the facts are incorrect, the charges don’t fit the crime or other problems emerge that should render a defendant innocent.
Finally, if the facts are solid and the defendant will be found guilty, there are some defenses that can be used to minimize the damage. There are many general defenses against criminal liability in Texas, but the most important for purposes of assault are insanity and self-defense. We all know the insanity defense, which means that the accused was not in a state of mind that allowed for the distinction between right and wrong.
Self-Defense In Texas Assault Charges
Self-defense is a factor in assault cases in Texas. If you reasonably believe that the other person is about to use force on you, you are justified in using force to protect yourself. It is important to note, however, that you cannot use unlimited force, but only the amount necessary to defend yourself. Further, you have to establish a reasonable belief that harm against you is imminent. You can’t simply think maybe someone is going to use violence against you. Finally, if you are engaged in a crime at the time of the altercation, it will nullify your self-defense claim.
Contact Sylestine Law
Do not try to handle your own defense in an assault case. There are legal nuances and challenges involved, and the stakes are high. I have the knowledge and experience to help you.
Call me today at to discuss your case. You can also schedule a consultation using my online contact form.