SOUTHERN BORN
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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC.
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.
Continuous Family Violence
Texas Penal Code § 25.11 - CONTINUOUS VIOLENCE AGAINST FA
Continuous Family Violence Attorney in San Antonio, Texas
The offense of continuous family violence in Texas is defined as committing two or more acts of family violence within a 12-month period.
In Texas, the offense of assault family violence is defined as committing an assault against a family or household member. An assault is defined as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, or threatening another person with imminent bodily injury.
There are several elements that must be present in order for an act to qualify as assault family violence in Texas. These elements include:
A relationship between the perpetrator and the victim that falls within the definition of "family or household member." This includes spouses, former spouses, parents as well as parents of the same child, children, and other individuals related by blood or marriage, as well as individuals who are or were living together as a family or in the same household.
An act that causes bodily injury to the victim, or a threat of imminent bodily injury. Bodily injury is defined in the Texas Penal Code as physical pain, illness, or any impairment of physical condition.
Intent on the part of the perpetrator to cause bodily injury, or to threaten the victim with imminent bodily injury. This means that the perpetrator must have intended to cause the victim harm, or must have acted with reckless disregard for the safety of the victim.
Defenses to Continuous Family Violence
There are several potential defenses to the charge of continuous family violence in Texas. Some common defenses include:
Self-defense: If the defendant used force against the victim in self-defense or defense of another person, they may be able to argue that the actions were justified and not the result of family violence.
False allegations: It is not uncommon for individuals to make false allegations of family violence, either out of spite or to gain an advantage in a divorce or custody battle. If the defendant can provide evidence that the allegations are false, they may be able to avoid a conviction.
Lack of intent: For an act to qualify as family violence, it must be done with the intent to cause physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault, or as a threat that reasonably places the victim in fear of imminent harm. If the defendant did not act with this intent, they may be able to argue that their actions do not meet the definition of family violence.
Accident: If the defendant's actions were accidental and not intended to cause harm, they may be able to argue that they did not commit an act of family violence.
It is important to note that these are just a few potential defenses to the charge of continuous family violence in Texas, and the specific defenses available in a particular case will depend on the unique circumstances of that case. It is advisable to consult with a criminal defense attorney to discuss the specific defenses that may be available in your case.
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
Punishments for Continuous Family Violence in Texas
In Texas, the offense of continuous family violence is a serious charge that can carry significant consequences upon conviction. If an individual is charged with continuous family violence in Texas, they may be subject to a variety of potential punishments upon conviction, including:
Imprisonment: Continuous family violence is typically charged as a third-degree felony in Texas, which carries a potential prison sentence of 2 to 10 years. However, if the defendant has a previous conviction for family violence, the charge may be enhanced even higher.
Fines: An individual convicted of continuous family violence in Texas may be ordered to pay fines in addition to any prison sentence. The amount of the fine will depend on the specific circumstances of the case and the discretion of the judge.
Probation: In some cases, an individual convicted of continuous family violence in Texas may be placed on probation instead of being sentenced to prison. Probation is a court-ordered period of supervision during which the individual must comply with certain conditions, such as attending counseling or participating in community service.
Restraining orders: A judge may also issue a restraining order prohibiting the defendant from contacting or coming near the victim, or from entering the victim's home or place of work.
It is important to note that these are just a few examples of the potential punishments for continuous family violence in Texas, and the specific consequences of a conviction will depend on the unique circumstances of the case. It is advisable to seek the advice of a qualified criminal defense attorney if you are facing charges of continuous family violence in Texas.
Attorney Brad Thornton
If you have been charged with continuous family violence in San Antonio, Texas, it is important to take the charges seriously and seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Board-certified criminal defense attorney Brad Thornton is an excellent choice for anyone facing charges of continuous family violence in San Antonio.
As a former chief prosecutor, Mr. Thornton has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and how the prosecution will approach your case. He will use this knowledge to develop a strong defense strategy on your behalf, with the goal of obtaining the best possible outcome in your case.
Mr. Thornton is a highly skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney who has the knowledge, resources, and determination to fight for your rights and protect your interests.
In addition, Mr. Thornton is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate representation to his clients. He understands that being charged with continuous family violence can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, and he will do everything in his power to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
If you have been charged with continuous family violence in San Antonio, Texas, we highly recommend that you contact Brad Thornton for a free consultation. He will be happy to discuss your case with you and provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the criminal justice system.
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.
David I.
Seguin, Texas
Brad was great from the moment he looked at my case. Despite his busy schedule, he made himself easily available, walked us through every detail with care and professionalism, and worked out a great deal with the prosecutor that was much better than any outcome we could have imagined. I don’t plan on needing his assistance again, but if I’m ever unfortunate enough to find myself in another legal bind, Brad will be my first call.
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.
Elaine B.
San Antonio, Texas
Brad is an amazing attorney, and I highly recommend him! He has deep knowledge and understanding how to navigate the law to support his clients. He has a way with people, and truly has his focus on client care and supporting them, during a time that’s usually stressful for clients. He was able to support in getting my case dismissed in less than 2 months and was attentive and personable during the whole process. You have a choice when deciding who’s going to represent you, and to have an attorney that genuinely cares for his clients should be an expectation anyone should set. Brad will meet that expectation 110%!
Kevin E.
Jourdanton, Texas
[Brad] made the process very easy for me, handling everything within a month, with a motion to dismiss all cases against me. I only had to attend court once! The portal he uses to make sure you are aware of everything going on in your case is awesome, I didn’t even have to worry everything got downloaded to the portal with email notifications. I would never use another attorney to represent me, he is the best at what he does.