Family Violence Attorney
Under Texas Family Code § 71.004, the term family violence may have multiple meanings. Under Texas law, family violence is defined “an act by a member of a family or household against another member of the family or household 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, but does not include defensive measures to protect oneself.” Texas law also includes dating violence or abuse by a member of a family or household toward a child of the family or household under the definition of family violence.
When police in Fort Worth or anywhere else in Tarrant County respond to a call of alleged domestic violence, it will invariably end with an arrest. This is often true even when allegations are exaggerated or flat-out false.
Fort Worth Family Violence Attorney
If you have been charged with any alleged act of domestic violence, it is a mistake to think that you will be successful by just going into court and telling your side of the story. It is in your best interest to have experienced legal counsel.
The Fort Worth domestic violence attorneys of Gebhardt and Eppes, PLLC defend clients in communities throughout Tarrant County, Johnson County, and Parker County. Call (817) 502-3600 right now to set up a free consultation that will let our firm review your case.
Tarrant County Family Violence Information Center
- What crimes are classified as acts of family violence?
- Who can be considered victims in family violence cases?
- Where can I find additional information about this issue?
Types of Family Violence in Texas
Several different crimes fall under the umbrella of family violence. The classification of criminal charges depends on several critical factors, including the alleged victim’s relationship to the alleged offender, whether any physical injuries were sustained, and the criminal history of the alleged offender.
Some of the family violence cases that Gebhardt and Eppes, PLLC handles include:
- Assault with Strangulation;
- Child Abuse;
- Child Neglect / Abandonment;
- Domestic Assault;
- Protective Order Hearings;
- Stalking; and
- Violation of Protective Order
Our firm understands that there is often far more to stories than just what is written in police reports. We conduct thorough investigations to determine all possible defense and mitigating factors that can help result in criminal charges being reduced or dismissed.
Definition of Family or Household Members in Fort Worth
Texas Family Code § 71.003 states that the term “family” includes all of the following:
- Individuals related by consanguinity (blood) or affinity (marriage);
- Individuals who are former spouses of each other;
- Individuals who are the parents of the same child, without regard to marriage; and
- A foster child and foster parent, without regard to whether those individuals reside together.
A household is defined as “a unit composed of persons living together in the same dwelling, without regard to whether they are related to each other,” and a household member can be any person who previously lived in a household.
Texas Resources for Family Violence
SafeHaven of Tarrant County — SafeHaven is the oldest and largest non-profit organization dedicated to domestic violence in Tarrant County. The organization has two 24-hour emergency shelters that protected 674 women and 862 children in 2014. You can learn more about upcoming events as well as how to get help on this website.
SafeHaven of Tarrant County1100 Hemphill Street
Suite 303
Fort Worth, TX 76104
(817) 535-6462
The Women’s Center of Tarrant County — The Women’s Center is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free violence prevention and education, employment solutions, and rape crisis and victim services for women and families in Tarrant County. In 2014, more than 110,000 women, men, and children were served by The Women’s Center. You can learn more about the organization’s programs, annual reports, and upcoming events on this website.
The Women’s Center of Tarrant County1723 Hemphill Street
Fort Worth, TX 76110
(817) 927-4040
Find a Domestic Violence Attorney in Fort Worth, TX
Were you arrested for an act of alleged family violence in Tarrant, Parker or Johnson County? You must take the allegations very seriously and ensure that you have legal representation prepared to protect your rights in court.
Gebhardt and Eppes, PLLC represents clients throughout the greater Fort Worth area of North Central Texas, including Cleburne, Weatherford, Arlington, and many surrounding communities. Our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys can evaluate your case as soon as you call (817) 502-3600 or submit an online form to schedule a free, confidential consultation.