Temple Family Violence Attorney

Gold circle with handcuffs icon

Contact the Carlson Law Firm About Your Bell County Family Violence Case

White Phone Icon Image
Call 254-526-5688
Location Arrow Icon
100 E Central Texas Expy
Killeen, TX 76541
White Envelope Icon Image
Contact Us

Protecting Your Rights

A family violence allegation in Temple can lead to immediate legal consequences, including arrest, bond conditions and possible protective orders. In Bell County, family relationships, housing arrangements and firearm rights can be affected while the case is pending.

Under Texas law, family violence allegations are treated differently from other criminal charges. With the potential of long-term consequences beyond the criminal case, it can help to have support from a Temple family violence attorney.

The Carlson Law Firm represents individuals that need family violence defense in Bell County. We review available evidence and applicable statutes for each case, as well as the procedural steps involved.

domestic assault attorney in Temple

How Texas Law Defines Family Violence

Family violence is defined under Texas Family Code 71.004. In general, family violence refers to acts intended to cause:

  • Assault or threats of imminent harm
  • Physical harm or bodily injury
  • Conduct that places a family or household member in fear of injury
 

A family violence attorney understands that many relationships qualify for these charges, including:

  • Dating partners
  • Spouses or former spouses
  • Parents of the same child
  • Individuals living in the same household
  • Certain relatives
 

Most criminal cases involving family violence are prosecuted under Texas Penal Code 22.01. There may be additional legal consequences tied to the relationship between the individuals involved, which a domestic violence attorney in Temple can explain.

Misdemeanor and Felony Temple Family Violence Attorney

Get Our Injury Claim Process Sheet

How a family violence charge is classified depends on the facts of the case and any prior history.

Class A Misdemeanor

Many first-time allegations involving bodily injury are charged as misdemeanors. These cases are usually handled in county courts within Bell County. Possible outcomes could include:

  • Fines
  • County jail exposure
  • Court-ordered programs
  • Community supervision
 

Felony Family Violence

Whether it is family violence or assault charges in Temple, certain circumstances can elevate the charge to a felony, including:

  • Allegations involving impeding breath or circulation
  • Prior family violence convictions
  • Serious bodily injury
 

Felony cases are prosecuted in district court, often at the Bell County Justice Center. If you are facing charges, a Temple family violence attorney can help.

What Happens Next with a Domestic Violence Lawyer in Temple

Following an arrest, a magistrate typically sets bond and imposes conditions of release. These conditions may include:

  • Restrictions on returning to a residence
  • No-contact orders
  • Travel limitations
  • Requirements to surrender firearms
 

Courts may also issue emergency protective orders under Article 17.292 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. These orders can remain in place while the case is pending.

Video: How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help?

What Happens After an Assault Arrest in Temple

We Care. How can we help?

Many family violence cases involve a separate civil protective order process in addition to the criminal case. Protective orders may:

  • Prohibit firearm possession
  • Restrict communication between individuals
  • Affect child custody or visitation
  • Limit access to certain locations
 

Because protective orders can remain in effect for extended periods, they may have ongoing implications beyond the criminal case. Whether you are facing family violence or drug possession charges, The Carlson Law Firm can review your case and explain any available legal options.

Federal Firearm Restrictions

A family violence conviction or qualifying finding may affect firearm eligibility under federal law, including 18 U.S.C. 922. These restrictions can apply even in cases involving misdemeanor-level convictions.

Local Knowledge in Temple Cases

Family violence cases often involve ongoing relationships or shared households. Child custody considerations are also common, and all these factors can affect how a case is handled.

Our attorneys have local knowledge of Bell County courts, which generally handle criminal and protective order proceedings. Many hearings take place in Belton. If you need defense for charges in Bell County, you can feel confident with our team.

Temple family violence attorney
Bell County family violence attorney

Defense in Family Violence Cases

Each case is unique and depends on its specific facts. Several legal issues are common during the review process, such as conflicting statements between the individuals involved.

Texas law allows individuals to use reasonable force in certain situations under Texas Penal Code 9.31. A Temple family violence attorney can evaluate whether self defense applies in a case.

Situations involving misunderstandings or accidental conduct may affect how the case is evaluated, as well as weak or inconsistent evidence. However, the prosecution must prove the allegation beyond a reasonable doubt.

Collateral Consequences of Family Violence Allegations

A conviction or finding of family violence may affect several areas of life beyond the immediate case. Possible consequences may include:

  • Employment background checks
  • Immigration considerations
  • Firearm restrictions
  • Housing applications
  • Future charge enhancements
 

Our attorneys are experienced in many practice areas, from family violence to driving while intoxicated defense. If you are facing criminal charges, schedule a free consultation with The Carlson Law Firm.

family violence defense in Bell County
family violence attorney

Preparation for Negotiation or Trial

Family violence cases that are not resolved through negotiated agreements proceed to hearings or trial. Preparation for these cases by a Temple family violence attorney may involve:

  • Reviewing evidence and reports
  • Evaluating witness statements
  • Filing pretrial motions
  • Preparing courtroom arguments
 

Our criminal defense representation has courtroom experience with family violence, assault and theft charges in Temple. We review the facts of each case with compassion and legal knowledge to evaluate options.

Family Violence FAQ

In Texas, the prosecutor determines whether a case proceeds, regardless of the complainant’s wishes.

It is a court order issued after an arrest that restricts contact and may impose other conditions. A protective order lawyer in Temple can answer any questions you may have.

No. Many first-time allegations are charged as misdemeanors, though certain factors could elevate the charge.

Certain findings or convictions may affect firearm eligibility under state and federal law.

Court orders and bond conditions remain in effect unless modified by the court.

About The Carlson Law Firm

What it means to hire a compassionate Criminal Defense Lawyer
Integrity

Our compassionate legal team will handle your case with sound judgment, honesty and dependability.

Community

We have strong ties to our community, which drives us to work tirelessly to get our clients the favorable outcomes they deserve.

Results

Our attorneys consistently achieve some of the largest verdicts and settlements in the country.

Reliable Temple Family Violence Attorney

Allegations of family violence in Temple can involve multiple legal proceedings, including criminal charges and protective orders. The structured procedures for cases filed in Bell County may include hearings, evidence review and possible trial.

The Carlson Law Firm has experience with misdemeanor and felony charges. Our Temple family violence attorney cares about you and your case. We provide compassionate legal support when you need it most, so schedule a free consultation today.

Carlson Law Firm logo seal shape

There's a CARLSON LAW FIRM Near You

With over a dozen locations throughout Texas, there’s a Carlson Law Firm near you. We have law offices located in Killeen, Temple, Waco, Round Rock, Austin, San Antonio, Kerrville, Laredo, Bryan, Lubbock, Midland, and Corpus Christi.

Find a location near you

free consultation

Ready to get started?

Get a FREE consultation