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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC.
Atascosa Office:
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Pleasanton, Texas 78064
FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR
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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.


Assault Family Violence - Strangulation
Texas Penal Code § 22.01(b)(2)(B) - ASSAULT-FAMILY-CHOKING/STRANGU
Assault Family Violence - Strangulation Defense Attorney in San Antonio, Texas
Assault Family Violence – Strangulation is a criminal offense in the state of Texas that involves causing bodily injury to a family member or household member by impeding their normal breathing or circulation by applying pressure to their throat or neck. This offense is described in Texas Penal Code section 22.01(b)(2)(B), which states that a person commits the offense of assault family violence if they commit assault and the victim is a member of their family or household.
The definition of "family violence" in Texas includes any act by a member of a family or household against another member that is intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault, or that is a threat that reasonably places the member in fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault. This definition includes acts that involve the use of a deadly weapon.
It is important to note that family violence can occur between family members or household members of any age, including between parents and children, siblings, and other relatives. It can also occur between individuals who are currently or were previously in a dating relationship.
Penalties in the State of Texas
In Texas, the offense of Assault Family Violence – Strangulation is a third-degree felony. If convicted, a person could face a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
There are certain circumstances that can enhance the penalties for this offense, such as if the person has a previous conviction for family violence, the offense can be enhanced to a second-degree felony which carries a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
In Texas, deferred adjudication is a type of probation that allows a person who has been charged with a crime to avoid a conviction if they complete certain conditions set by the court. Deferred adjudication is typically considered to be a more lenient sentence than regular probation, as it does not result in a conviction on a person's criminal record.
However, there are certain exceptions to this rule in Texas. One of these exceptions is for offenses involving family violence. Under Texas law, a sentence of deferred adjudication for an offense involving family violence can be considered a final conviction for enhancement purposes. This means that if a person is later charged with another offense involving family violence and they have a previous deferred adjudication for a family violence offense on their record, the penalties for the subsequent offense can be enhanced based on the previous deferred adjudication.
In addition to the criminal penalties, a conviction for Assault Family Violence – Strangulation can also have collateral consequences, such as difficulty finding employment or housing, and the loss of certain rights, such as the right to own a firearm.
It is important to note that a person accused of this offense has the right to a fair trial and the presumption of innocence. They should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to understand their rights and options. Attorney Brad Thornton is one of the best Assault Family Violence – Strangulation Attorneys in San Antonio, Texas.

Punishment Ranges
Level of Offense
Potential Incarceration
Potential Fine
First-degree Felony
Second-degree Felony
Third-degree Felony
State Jail Felony
Class A Misdemeanor
Class B Misdemeanor
2 - 10 years in prison
180 days - 2 years in jail
Up to 1 year in jail
Up to 180 days in jail
2 - 20 years in prison
5 - 99 years in prison
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $4,000
Up to $2,000
Defenses to Assault Strangulation in San Antonio, Texas
If you have been charged with Assault Family Violence – Strangulation in Texas, it is important to understand that you have the right to defend yourself against these charges. There are a number of potential defenses that may be available to you, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Some common defenses for this offense include:
Self-defense: If you were acting in self-defense when you committed the offense of Assault Family Violence – Strangulation, you may be able to use this as a defense. In order to assert self-defense, you must be able to show that you reasonably believed that you were in imminent danger of bodily injury and that the use of force was necessary to protect yourself.
Defense of others: Similar to self-defense, if you were acting in defense of another person when you committed the offense of Assault Family Violence – Strangulation, you may be able to use this as a defense. In order to assert defense of others, you must be able to show that the other person was in imminent danger of bodily injury and that the use of force was necessary to protect them.
Lack of intent: In order to be convicted of Assault Family Violence – Strangulation, the prosecutor must be able to prove that you acted with the specific intent to cause bodily injury to the victim. If you did not act with this intent, you may be able to use this as a defense.
False accusations: It is not uncommon for people to make false accusations of family violence, particularly in the context of domestic disputes. If you have been wrongly accused of Assault Family Violence – Strangulation, you may be able to use this as a defense.
If you have been charged with Assault Family Violence – Strangulation in Texas, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and assist you in developing a strong defense strategy for your case.
Attorney Brad Thornton
If you have been charged with Assault Family Violence – Strangulation in San Antonio, Texas, it is important to understand the seriousness of the charges against you and the potential consequences of a conviction. In these situations, it is crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and help you navigate the complex legal system.
One attorney who may be able to help you is Brad Thornton, a board-certified criminal defense attorney who is based in San Antonio. Mr. Thornton has extensive experience representing clients charged with all types of crimes, including Assault Family Violence – Strangulation. He is a former chief prosecutor, which gives him a unique perspective on how these cases are handled by the prosecution and what strategies are most effective in defending against these charges.
If you are facing charges of Assault Family Violence – Strangulation in San Antonio, you should consider calling Mr. Thornton for a free consultation. During this consultation, Mr. Thornton can review the specifics of your case, explain your legal options, and provide you with an honest assessment of your chances of success. He can also advise you on the best course of action to take in order to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
In addition to his legal expertise, Mr. Thornton is known for his dedication to his clients and his commitment to providing exceptional legal representation. He will work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible result in your case, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea deal or fighting the charges at trial.
If you have been charged with Assault Family Violence – Strangulation in San Antonio, don't hesitate to call Brad Thornton for a free consultation. He can provide you with the legal guidance you need to protect your rights and your future.

FORMER PROSECUTOR
San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton has spent years in court rooms fighting for justice. As a prosecutor, Brad was a leader on cases ranging from marijuana to murder from arrest to appeal. Who better to fight for your rights than someone who knows the "other side" and has tried the toughest of cases out there. Put his experience and knowledge to work for you.


Daryl M.
Elmendorf, Texas
If you need a criminal lawyer, Brad Thornton is an excellent choice. He is intelligent, trustworthy, and highly professional, with an amazing understanding of the law.
Choosing the right lawyer can shape the rest of your life, so make sure to make the right decision and choose Brad Thornton.
Brian F.
San Antonio, Texas
I have had the opportunity to know Brad both personally and professionally for a while now. As a fellow attorney, I am consistently impressed by his passion and innovative approach to legal issues. He is exceptionally intelligent and is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients. When I refer clients to Brad, I have full confidence that they will receive top-quality representation.
Stephanie S.
San Antonio, Texas
We recently faced a stressful family matter and turned to Brad for legal guidance. He was extremely compassionate and helped us understand our options and the legal process in an easy-to-follow way. We are thrilled with the outcome of our case and are grateful to Brad for his help. Thank you!
Garry T.
San Antonio, Texas
I cannot emphasize enough how understanding and compassionate Brad Thornton was during a difficult situation. He helped us navigate the legal aspects of our case and provided us with a clear understanding of our options. I highly recommend Brad Thornton for anyone in need of legal representation.