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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC. 

Atascosa County Criminal Defense Attorney

San Antonio Office:

111 Soledad, Suite 401

San Antonio, Texas 78205

Tel: 210-439-5627

Atascosa Office:

216 N Bryant St

Pleasanton, Texas 78064

FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR

PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE

NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE

CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE

BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW 

OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW

WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?

Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.

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San Antonio Intoxication Assault Attorney

Intoxication Assault

Less than .008% of lawyers are Board Certified in Criminal Law. Click below to find out what that means and why hiring a Board Certified attorney is the only was to make sure you are getting an lawyer with the experience to handle your case.

Former Vehicular Crimes Prosecutor

FORMER VEHICULAR CRIMES PROSECUTOR

As a ​member of the District Attorney's Vehicular Crimes Team, in the county with the most roadway fatalities in the State, Brad Thornton was regularly dispatched to the worst types of DWI cases involving serious bodily injury or death.  His years of experience and training on the most serious types of intoxication charges allows him to protect your rights!  When you are looking for a DWI Lawyer in San Antonio DWI attorney, Brad has the experience you need on your side. 

Intoxication Assault in San Antonio, Texas


In Texas, Intoxication Assault is a third-degree felony charge that carries serious consequences. This offense is defined as causing serious bodily injury to another person while operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated — and at least one of the parties involved, other than the person charged with the crime, must have sustained serious injuries as a result of the defendant’s actions. It’s important to note that even if you didn’t intend to cause harm, you can still be charged with Intoxication Assault in Texas.


Prosecutors take intoxication assault very seriously in Texas, because it’s a serious offense that can have life-altering consequences for the victim. The state views this crime as one of the most egregious forms of drunk driving and carries heavy penalties as a result. For example, if convicted, you could be looking at up to 10 years in prison and/or fines of up to $10,000. You may also face additional charges such as medical expenses for any victims involved — which could skyrocket depending on the severity of the injuries sustained.


If you find yourself facing an Intoxication Assault charge in Texas, it is crucial that you seek legal counsel right away. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand the charges and laws associated with your case, guide you through the legal process, and even explore options to reduce or dismiss the charges against you. In addition, it’s important to remember that Intoxication Assault is a felony charge and could have long-term implications on your life — so it’s essential that you take these charges seriously and do not act without consulting an attorney first.

Elements of Intoxication Assault in San Antonio


The Texas Penal Code Section 49.07 defines Intoxication Assault as operating a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated and causing serious bodily injury to another person.


Serious bodily injury is defined as an injury that creates a substantial risk of death or that causes serious and permanent disfigurement or loss/impairment of the function of any body part or organ.


Some examples include severe broken bones, head trauma, paralysis and nerve damage. For someone to be charged with Intoxication Assault in Texas, at least one victim must have suffered from one or more of these kinds of injuries.

Under Texas law, intoxication is defined in two ways: by the amount of alcohol in your blood and/or by your mental or physical state. The legal limit for a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level is 0.08%, but you can still be considered intoxicated if your BAC is below this limit — if the officer can show that you have lost the normal use of your mental and physical faculties. You can also be charged with Intoxication Assault in Texas even if you weren’t under the influence of alcohol; if drugs are found in your system — whether illegal substances or prescription medication — that could lead to criminal charges as well.


 


Defenses for Intoxication Assault in San Antonio


The most common defense for Intoxication Assault in Texas is that the accused was not actually intoxicated. For example, even if a breath or blood test can show that the defendant had a BAC over 0.08%, the lab information can be reviewed by an expert who can show the jury how the result shouldn’t be trusted. Additionally, a defense attorney may also argue that there is insufficient evidence to prove that an injury occurred due to the defendant’s alleged intoxication — meaning they should not be held criminally liable for their actions. This is called challenging the “causation” and is one of the most common defenses.


Other defenses may include challenging the proper administration of the field sobriety tests, lack of probable cause to detain you and investigate, and/or issues regarding Miranda rights.