Round Rock Domestic Violence Attorney

Are you a Victim Or Are You Facing False Accusations of Domestic Violence? Act Now to Protect Your Rights

Domestic violence is a serious criminal charge in Texas and can have a lasting impact on your life. A conviction may result in severe penalties, including prison, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. At Pennington Law, we have handled hundreds of criminal cases and offer a wealth of legal knowledge and experience that we put to work for you. 

If you currently face an abusive relationship or have been accused of domestic violence, you need a knowledgeable and dedicated domestic violence attorney in Round Rock to guide you through the legal process and pursue the protection you need.

Our Round Rock domestic violence attorneys are ready to take on your case. Contact us online today at (512) 877-4384 to get started!

What is Domestic Violence in Texas?

Under Texas law, domestic violence involves violence committed against a family or household member. A family member may be your spouse, former spouse, co-parent, cohabitant, or a person you have dated or engaged in a sexual relationship with.

A household member can include anyone sharing your residence, someone you share a child with, or a person you provide care for. The law also recognizes as a household member those with whom you have a marriage-like or current dating relationship.

Some common forms of domestic violence include:

1. Physical Abuse: This can include hitting, slapping, kicking, choking, or other forms of physical harm.
2. Emotional or Psychological Abuse: This includes threats, intimidation, verbal abuse, and controlling behavior that undermines a person’s sense of self-worth and independence.
3. Sexual Abuse: Any non-consensual sexual contact or forcing a person to engage in sexual activity.
4. Financial Abuse: Controlling or limiting access to money, preventing the victim from working, or manipulating finances for control.

Can You Face Criminal Charges For Domestic Violence?

The penalties for domestic violence depend on the type of offense, the relationship to the victim, and any prior offenses. A person can be charged with a Class A or Class B misdemeanor for domestic violence.

• Class A misdemeanor: A defendant may be charged for assault on a family member if they recklessly cause bodily injury by striking, stabbing, shooting, biting, pulling hair, or using other dangerous means.
• Class B misdemeanor: A defendant may be charged for assault on a household member if they recklessly cause bodily injury by striking, biting, or pulling hair.

Someone may be charged with a third-degree misdemeanor for harassment of a family member if they intentionally threaten, physically abuse, or communicate threats against the family member.

The Williamson County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes domestic violence cases in Round Rock. When a police officer in Round Rock responds to a domestic disturbance, they usually consult with local prosecutors before filing charges. This approach ensures prompt legal attention to domestic violence complaints and helps gather critical evidence early in the investigation. Close cooperation between local law enforcement and the court system can speed processing times compared to larger areas.

Penalties for Domestic Violence Offenders in Texas

A judge may sentence a defendant convicted of a Class A misdemeanor for domestic violence to up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. The court may also order attendance in a batterers' intervention program.

For a Class B misdemeanor conviction, the sentence can be up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. The judge may also require participation in a batterers' intervention program.

Repeat offenses or cases involving significant injuries may result in felony charges. A felony conviction carries tougher consequences, including state prison and lasting restrictions on civil rights. In Williamson County, felony domestic violence cases move to district court, requiring careful preparation for possible jury trials and thorough evidence handling. Defendants may face no-contact orders and limits on firearm ownership, which can affect daily life and employment.

Understanding the Domestic Violence Case Process in Round Rock

Understanding the local court process helps you navigate what follows a domestic violence accusation in Round Rock. After someone contacts law enforcement, officers respond and may make an arrest based on statements and visible evidence. The accused then usually appears before a magistrate judge in Williamson County, where the court sets bond conditions and considers protective orders.

Next, the District Attorney's office reviews police reports to decide whether to file charges. Preliminary hearings give both sides a chance to review evidence and discuss pre-trial options. Multiple court appearances are often necessary before the case reaches a conclusion. If matters proceed to trial, the district or county court considers all evidence before making a decision. Local judges focus on the facts unique to each case, so it is essential to communicate promptly and comply with all court orders.

If you face charges in Round Rock, working with a legal professional who knows the local court system and law enforcement can help you understand deadlines, required documents, and how to communicate with court officials. Staying organized and proactive can make a difference for your experience and your future.

How Domestic Violence Charges Affect Family Law Cases

Domestic violence allegations extend beyond the criminal record—these claims often affect divorce and child custody matters. In Round Rock and Williamson County, family courts closely examine any domestic violence claims when making decisions about parenting plans, visitation, or property division. Judges may temporarily restrict or supervise parenting time if they see a risk to the child's safety due to family conflict.

Such restrictions might include supervised visitation or limited contact until the court reviews all evidence and completes any investigations. Anyone involved in divorce or custody disputes should promptly address domestic violence issues, so the court considers the full context and protects the family’s well-being.

Working with a legal team experienced in both criminal and family law cases in the area ensures your defense and family law strategies align. This coordination can help avoid conflicting orders, clarify your rights, and support long-term solutions for your children and legal standing. The Williamson County courthouse and family law offices regularly communicate to review protective orders, emergency custody requests, and family issues connected to domestic violence cases.

What to Do If I'm Wrongly Accused of Domestic Violence?

A person can face domestic violence charges if they commit an act of violence against a family or household member. However, someone can only be charged with domestic violence involving a dating partner if they have committed family violence against that partner in the last four years.

If you are wrongly accused of domestic violence, you must stay calm, avoid retaliation, and seek legal representation straight away. Work with a trusted domestic violence lawyer in Round Rock to document evidence, preserve your defense, and avoid direct contact with the accuser. Follow all court orders, prepare for each legal step, and consider counterclaims if appropriate.

False accusations can create lasting legal and personal consequences. Gather crucial documents, messages, and witness statements that may support your case. Williamson County courts treat every allegation seriously, so bringing in a defense attorney early improves your odds of handling hearings, protective order requests, and negotiations. Build your defense on facts and address any misunderstandings or exaggerated claims. Staying proactive protects your record and your reputation.

Get Help from Our Round Rock Domestic Violence Defense Team

If you or someone you care about faces domestic violence charges, seek a knowledgeable defense right away. Our domestic violence lawyers in Round Rock make time to understand you and the details of your case. We work closely with you to build a thorough defense and help protect your rights throughout the legal process.

We use a comprehensive approach, reviewing police reports, witness statements, and possible weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Our clients receive step-by-step guidance for every hearing and straightforward explanations of what comes next. Because we regularly practice in Williamson and Travis counties, we understand how local prosecutors, judges, and police handle domestic violence charges. We use that insight to keep you informed, prepared, and positioned for the best possible outcome.

Contact a Round Rock domestic violence attorney at (512) 877-4384 today to set up a consultation!

Legal Protections for Domestic Violence Victims

Victims in Texas have legal paths for immediate protection and long-term safety. The law aims to prevent repeated abuse and help victims gain independence from dangerous situations.

Working with an attorney serving Williamson County gives you options such as pursuing emergency protective orders, temporary possession of a home, or safe custody for children. Every step requires fast action, clear documentation, and coordination with the courts. Local police and support organizations help with urgent needs, while your lawyer works to secure permanent solutions. Victims in Round Rock may involve the Williamson County Sheriff's Office, especially if situations cross city or county lines. This makes sure protective orders remain enforceable throughout the county.

Protective Orders

A protective order is a key tool for victims in Texas. Courts issue protective orders to help shield individuals from further harm by the abuser. 

These orders can include a range of provisions, such as:

• Requiring the abuser to stay away from the victim and their children.
• Granting exclusive possession of the home to the victim.
• Prohibiting the abuser from contacting the victim through phone calls, text messages, or social media.
• Ordering the abuser to leave the family home if they reside together.
• Prohibiting the abuser from carrying firearms.

Texas courts issue two main types of protective orders: temporary and final. A temporary protective order often grants immediate protection, sometimes before the accused receives notice. A final protective order follows a court hearing and can last up to two years. A domestic violence lawyer in Round Rock can help you pursue both types to keep you and your family safe.