A violent crime accusation can leave you uncertain about your freedom and future. You need answers about the charge, the evidence, and your options, which is why hiring the right attorney is crucial.
The Law Office of Jesse Hernandez represents individuals facing assault, homicide, and other violent crime allegations. Our San Antonio violent crimes lawyers can review your circumstances and develop a defense that addresses the specific accusation.
What Violent Crime Charges Does Our Firm Handle?
Violent offenses can involve bodily harm, threats, or conduct that causes death. The legal requirements differ by offense. Our firm’s criminal defense attorneys handle:
- Assault: Allegations involving bodily injury, threats of imminent injury, or offensive physical contact under Texas Penal Code §22.01.
- Aggravated assault: Assault involving serious bodily injury or the use or exhibition of a deadly weapon under §22.02.
- Domestic assault: Assault allegations involving a spouse, dating partner, or family or household member. The relationship, alleged conduct, and prior convictions can affect the charge.
- Murder and manslaughter: Murder includes intentional or knowing killing and other conduct defined in §19.02. Manslaughter involves recklessly causing another person’s death under §19.04.
An injury alone doesn’t determine the charge. Authorities consider several factors, including the alleged conduct and the required mental state, when classifying the crime.
Possible Penalties for Violent Crimes in Texas
Penalties vary depending on the severity of the violent crime. While aggravated assault typically constitutes a second-degree felony, courts usually classify bodily-injury assault as a Class A misdemeanor, though specific circumstances may elevate these charges.
Standard punishment ranges include:
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail, a fine up to $4,000, or both.
- Third-degree felony: Two to 10 years in prison and a possible fine up to $10,000.
- Second-degree felony: Two to 20 years in prison and a possible fine up to $10,000.
- First-degree felony: Five to 99 years or life in prison and a possible fine up to $10,000.
These aren’t predictions for your case. Prior convictions and offense-specific rules can change the applicable range. Your attorney should explain the potential penalties before you make decisions about a plea or trial.
How a San Antonio Violent Crime Attorney Builds a Defense
Our team examines the evidence rather than relying only on the arrest report. That review may include witness accounts, medical records, surveillance footage, emergency calls, and messages.
We look for contradictions, missing context, identification problems, and evidence that challenges the alleged injury or weapon use. The defense may also question whether prosecutors can prove the required mental state.
Self-defense may apply when the facts meet Texas law’s requirements. However, verbal provocation alone doesn’t justify force, and deadly force has additional restrictions.
From there, our firm evaluates legal challenges, discusses available resolutions, and prepares for courtroom proceedings. Instead of offering guaranteed dismissals or specific outcomes, we outline all options and potential risks clearly so you have a reasonable expectation throughout the process.
What Should You Do After an Arrest?
Ask to speak with an attorney before answering questions about the incident. You have the right to remain silent and to have counsel present during police interviews.
Preserve relevant messages, photos, and videos without altering or deleting them. Give potential witnesses’ names to your lawyer rather than questioning them yourself.
Don’t contact the alleged victim, including through a third-party. Follow all bond conditions and protective orders, and ask your attorney about any restrictions you don’t understand.
Why Choose the Law Office of Jesse Hernandez?
San Antonio violent crime lawyer Jesse Hernandez began his criminal defense career at the Webb County Public Defender’s Office. He later established his practice in San Antonio, TX.
Our firm focuses on criminal defense, including violent crime, DWI, and sexual assault cases. That focus supports an approach built around evidence review, negotiation, and courtroom advocacy.
You’ll need more than reassurance when difficult decisions arise. Our team provides, offers straightforward explanations, discusses concerns, and helps you understand how each option could affect your case.
Violent Crime Lawyer for San Antonio: Discuss Your Case
Whether police have contacted you or filed charges against you, securing legal representation before taking your next step is critical. Contact the Law Office of Jesse Hernandez at (210) 807-8656 to arrange a free case evaluation.
