Differences Between Texas First and Second-Degree Aggravated Assault Charges

In Texas, aggravated assault charges are more serious versions of assault charges, but did you know that there are two different classifications for aggravated assault charges? In this blog post, attorney John L. Venza Jr. will look at the differences between Texas first and second-degree aggravated assault charges.

Classifications of Aggravated Assault Charges

An aggravated assault charge is simply an assault charge with circumstances that will increase the penalties against the accused.

A Texas assault charge becomes an aggravated assault charge when:

• the assault causes serious bodily injury to another person; or
• uses or exhibits a deadly weapon during the commission of the assault.

When the circumstances fit only these criteria, it’s a case of a second-degree felony aggravated assault charge. However, if other circumstances exist, the case could be a first-degree felony aggravated assault charge.

First-Degree Aggravated Assault Charge

A first-degree aggravated assault charge is a normal aggravated assault charge with circumstances that increase the penalties against the accused.

A Texas aggravated assault chargebecomes a first-degree aggravated assault charge when:

• The victim is a family member of the accused and is seriously injured during the assault;
• The accused is an on-duty public servant;
• The accused attacked an on-duty public servant;
• The accused attacked an off-duty public servant for something they did while on duty;
• The accused attacked a witness or another person connected to the witness;
• The accused attacked an on-duty security officer;
• The accused was in a motor vehicle and fired a weapon at something or someone.

Serious Charges Need Serious Representation

If you’ve been accused of aggravated assault, you need serious representation regardless of the first or second-degree classification. Attorney John L. Venza Jr. has represented clients for nearly two decades, which means he has helped numerous people fight their charges. If you want serious representation, you want Law Office of John L. Venza!

Call (281) 817-8737 now for a free consultation for your case!