Statistics indicate that in 2010 there were over 71,000 cases of
aggravated assault in the state of Texas. For reasons not understood,
more aggravated assaults occurred in the state in May than in any other
month while the fewest assaults took place in February. Approximately
284 aggravated assaults took place in 2010 for every 100,000 residents
in the Lone Star State. Assault charges are taken very seriously in
Texas, especially if a weapon was used or if injuries resulted from the
assault.
The circumstances surrounding the assault will determine whether it will be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony and there are a wide variety of penalties and punishments involved. Simple assault will generally be charged as a misdemeanor unless it involves domestic violence, and except for domestic violence cases police officers will usually want to either see the “assault” themselves or have corroborating witness testimony. Keep in mind, however that “assault” has a very broad definition and can include the threat of assault or something as simple as poking your neighbor in the chest to make a point during a heated argument.
The circumstances surrounding the assault will determine whether it will be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony and there are a wide variety of penalties and punishments involved. Simple assault will generally be charged as a misdemeanor unless it involves domestic violence, and except for domestic violence cases police officers will usually want to either see the “assault” themselves or have corroborating witness testimony. Keep in mind, however that “assault” has a very broad definition and can include the threat of assault or something as simple as poking your neighbor in the chest to make a point during a heated argument.