Defense to Violent Crime Charges in Texas

The defense to violent crimes in Texas depends on the specific facts of the case and the charges involved. Generally, common defenses to violent crimes include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistake of fact, and lack of evidence.

Self-defense is a valid defense to violent crime charges in Texas. For an individual to successfully raise self-defense as a defense in their case, they must prove that they reasonably believed that there was an imminent threat of harm or death from the alleged victim and that the use of force or violence used was necessary for protection from that threat. It is important to note that self-defense does not apply if an individual provoked the attack.

Defense of another is another form of legal defense for those accused of violent crime. This refers to situations where a person uses force or violence to defend another person from a physical attack. For this defense to be successful, it must be demonstrated that there was an imminent danger faced by the other person and likewise, only reasonable force could be used against their attacker.

Lack of intent is also a potential defense against criminal charges involving violence. This means showing that any action taken was not done with the intention or desire to injure another person. For example, if someone throws something at someone else without realizing how much damage it may cause, then they would not have had any intention of causing harm when they threw it and therefore lack intent as a valid legal defense, but depending on the situation, may just lessen the charge, instead of being an outright defense to criminal conduct altogether.

Mistake of fact is yet another line of defense that can involve demonstrating unintentional actions due to mistaken belief about certain factual circumstances surrounding the event in question. This may involve showing that there was no knowledge about whether someone had permission or authority over property or items involved in a dispute resulting in a physical altercation between parties. This might also refer to situations where one did not know another party's age if charged with Injury Against The Elderly or Injury Against A Child offenses under Texas Penal Code 22.04 .

Finally, lack of evidence can also be used as a line of legal defense against charges involving violence. This means demonstrating that there is insufficient evidence available for a conviction on the offense charged which can involve challenging witness credibility and law enforcement testimony during trial proceedings among other strategies.

Attorney Brad Thornton Can Help

If you have been charged with a violent crime, Attorney Brad Thornton is dedicated to providing the best legal defense possible. Contact us today for a free consultation and to discuss your case. Your freedom and future are at stake and we take that seriously. We are committed to fighting for you and protecting your rights. Don’t go through this alone; contact Attorney Brad Thornton for experienced San Antonio criminal defense representation today.