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Domestic Violence

Amarillo Domestic Violence Attorney

domestic violence in texas

Domestic violence charges in Texas can destroy a person's life overnight. If you were accused of having committed this crime, it is crucial that you get started on building a strong defense as soon as possible. The Amarillo domestic violence attorney at The Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse can help.

As a Certified ACS Forensic Lawyer-Scientist, he can investigate your case and help you get the best possible outcome for your situation.

Tens of thousands of Texas domestic violence cases are filed each year. While family violence is the most common, these charges can be filed when violence occurs against dating partners and housemates. On top of that, you could be arrested for making someone fear for their safety, whether or not you actually cause them harm.


Schedule a free case evaluation with our Amarillo domestic violence attorney by calling (806) 350-6785 or contacting our firm online.


Defining Domestic Violence in Texas

Under Texas law, three types of domestic violence are recognized. The three types include continuous violence against the family, domestic assault and aggravated domestic assault. Domestic violence in Texas is any act of violence that is committed against a household member, family member or:

  • A person that lives with the offender
  • A former or current spouse or their child
  • A foster child or foster parent
  • A person that the offender has or has had an ongoing relationship with
  • A family member by adoption, blood or marriage
  • A person that the offender has had children with

Penalties for Domestic Violence in Texas

If you are charged with domestic violence, you can face the following penalties:

  • First Degree Felony - $10,000 fine and 5 to 99 years in prison
  • Second Degree Felony - $10,000 fine and 2 to 20 years in prison
  • Third Degree Felony - $10,000 fine and 2 to 10 years in prison
  • Class A misdemeanor - $4,000 fine or one year in jail or both

What Happens After Family Violence Charges Are Filed?

Unlike other criminal offenses, domestic violence can put someone under arrest for mere allegations. The next step is usually filing a protective order against the accused, putting them out of their home and out of contact with their loved ones.

If convicted of family violence in Texas, you could face:

  • Misdemeanor sentencing that puts you in jail for up to a year
  • Felony sentencing that could put you in prison for 20-99 years in prison
  • Fines of up to $10,000
  • Requirement to surrender firearms
  • Difficulty finding employment and housing

How an Attorney Can Help

There are many reasons why you could have been charged with domestic violence in Texas, and not all of them are because a crime actually took place. At The Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, we understand the difficulty of your situation and provide counsel about how to make the best use of your legal options. With us on your side, you can feel confident and hopeful about the challenges ahead.


Facing charges for domestic violence in Texas? Call (806) 350-6785 now to get started on your free case evaluation.


Recent Reviews & Testimonials

    Chris Heese will go beyound and above to make sure you are taken care of. Chris Heese will fight for you and do what is right. I was pleased with the outcome of Chris Heese being my attorney.
    - Rob
    I have used Chris on two separate occasions he has always answered my calls, messages, and email. I would recommend him for anyone needing a lawyer.
    - Robert
    "He will go above and beyond to get the results that you are seeking."
    Chris is an outstanding lawyer. He fought hard for my husband to get his charge for a DWI dropped and of course, he was successful in doing so. He cares about his clients and will go above and beyond to get the results that you are seeking.
    - Edaena
    "I could not have received any better counsel."
    Mr. Hesse assisted me as local counsel on a very difficult federal case. I could not have received any better counsel. On time, on task, and on the spot with guidance and advice. Highly Recommended!
    - Scott
    "Chris was an absolute professional in the courtroom"
    I sat 2nd chair with Mr. Hesse on a Possession of Marijuana case in April of 2014. Chris was an absolute professional in the courtroom. He was able to narrow down on the proper issues during jury selection and succeeded with the suppression of the Marijuana in the case. Judges are reluctant to grant suppressions, but Chris was able to get it done! At that point, the government had no other option than to dismiss the case. Had it not been for Chris' ability to spot a fatal flaw in the government's case, his client may have been wrongfully convicted. I have no doubt Chris will work hard on your case to expose the government just as he did in our case.
    - Armen Merjanian
    "Highly recommend Chris Hesse for your next criminal attorney!"
    I received a ticket for a traffic mishap you see i have a CDL and the city of Amarillo, TX. which does not dismiss them. he worked endlessly and countless hours to help me get the ticket off my record which he did. With little help from me I highly recommend Chris Hesse for your next criminal attorney!!
    - John Brooks
    "Excellent Lawyer"
    After being pulled over unfairly and being charge with possession. Chris Hesse helped me and got my charge dismissed. I would definitely recommend him to anyone needing an attorney. He is both experienced and willing to fight to get the best outcome for you.
    - Daegen
    "Not only did he fight for me, he showed he cared."
    Not only did he fight for me, but he showed he cared when everyone else seemed to just want to throw the book at me. He got my assault charge and disorderly conduct charges dismissed!!
    - Trent