Domestic Violence Lawyer Angleton

Defending Those Accused of Domestic Violence in Texas

The imposition of a civil restraining order against you can have very serious consequences. You can be forced out of your home, lose your child custody rights, and lose your right to own a firearm. A criminal conviction for violating a restraining order can result in jail time.

In either situation, you need a strong and effective advocate who protects your rights. Your family relationships, your career, and possibly your freedom are at risk. At Jeff Gilbert Law Office, our domestic violence attorneys in Brazoria County assist clients charged with domestic violence throughout Southeast Texas.

What Is a Protective Order?

A protective order, also known as a restraining order, is a legal order issued by a court to protect an individual from harassment, abuse, stalking, or threats by another person. These orders are typically used in situations involving domestic violence but can also apply to other forms of harassment or threats.

Protection orders serve as a vital legal measure, providing peace of mind and safety for those who feel threatened. Understanding the intricacies of these orders, including how they are issued and enforced, can significantly impact their effectiveness. At Jeff Gilbert Law Office, we ensure clients are fully informed and prepared to navigate the complexities of obtaining or contesting a protective order.

Key aspects of a protective order include:

• Purpose: To provide safety and prevent further harm or harassment to the victim by legally restricting the behavior of the alleged abuser.
• Provisions: The order may include provisions such as prohibiting the other person from contacting or approaching the victim, staying away from the victim's home or workplace, and sometimes temporary custody arrangements for children.
• Types: Protective orders can be temporary (emergency orders) or long-term, depending on the situation and the court's decision.
• Enforcement: Violating a protective order can result in legal consequences, including arrest and criminal charges.
• Process: To obtain a protective order, the victim typically needs to file a petition with the court, and a judge will review the case to determine if the order is warranted.

Representation at the Civil Hearing

Following the issuance of a temporary restraining or protection order, a hearing will be scheduled within two weeks regarding the issuance of a final protection order. It is essential to have legal representation at this hearing. Trying to represent yourself may produce an adverse result.

Founding attorney Jeff Gilbert represents clients in this hearing to protect their rights and present their side of the story. The goal is to prevent the issuance of a final order. If that is not possible, we seek to limit the restrictions that are placed on our clients.

Given the stakes involved in these hearings, our legal team meticulously prepares by gathering evidence, identifying favorable witnesses, and developing a persuasive argument that thoroughly addresses the allegations. This preparation is vital in countering any accusations and establishing a comprehensive defense strategy.

Defenses for a Domestic Violence Charge

The police have very little flexibility in cases involving domestic disturbances. If they are called to the scene of an incident, they will arrest one of the parties in the dispute. It may be possible for our firm to obtain an affidavit of nonprosecution, or it may be necessary to aggressively defend the charge at trial.

We may be able to develop evidence in your favor that counters the allegations made in the criminal complaint in order to obtain a dismissal or not guilty verdict. In situations where this is not feasible, it may be possible to mitigate the penalties you face through your participation in a treatment program or anger management course.

Our Brazoria County domestic violence lawyers will explain your options so that you can make the decision that is right for you. We work diligently to protect your rights and pursue the best outcome possible.

When defending against criminal charges, especially those as serious as domestic violence, the right approach can significantly alter the outcome. Our approach includes scrutinizing the evidence for inconsistencies, exploring potential violations of procedural rights, and identifying alternative narratives that challenge the prosecution's case.

Domestic Violence Charges & Consequences in TX

In Texas, domestic violence charges range in severity from physical contact, like pushing, kicking, and hitting, to nonphysical interactions, like threatening and intimidating. Criminal domestic violence charges carry life-altering consequences. Even if it’s your first offense, being accused of domestic violence can mean loss of freedom, serious penalties, and fines.

Community Resources & Support in Angleton

Dealing with domestic violence charges can be an overwhelming experience, but fortunately, Angleton offers numerous community resources supporting those affected by these issues. The Women's Center of Brazoria County provides comprehensive services, including counseling, crisis intervention, and emergency shelter. These services can be invaluable in providing immediate safety and support while facilitating longer-term recovery and empowerment.

Additionally, the Brazoria County Community Supervision & Corrections Department offers programs aimed at rehabilitation and behavioral change, such as anger management courses and family violence prevention programs. Participation in these programs can be a proactive step towards demonstrating a commitment to change, potentially influencing the outcome of legal proceedings positively.

Accessing these community resources ensures individuals have the necessary support network to navigate this difficult time effectively, and it can significantly impact their emotional well-being and legal outcomes. At Jeff Gilbert Law Office, we encourage individuals to leverage these resources as part of a comprehensive approach to handling domestic violence allegations.