The Court Process for Assault of a Family Member Cases

If you’ve been accused of assault of a family member in Texas, one of the most stressful parts of the experience is not knowing what happens next. The family violence court process in Texas can be confusing and intimidating, especially in counties like Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, and Galveston where dockets are crowded and prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively.

This guide breaks down each step of the process and shows why having an experienced family assault lawyer near youis critical from day one.

Arrest

Most cases begin with a 911 call. Police responding to family violence calls often make an arrest—even when the evidence is thin or both parties claim to be victims. Once arrested, you’ll be booked into jail and may face an emergency protective order preventing you from returning home.

Arraignment

At your first court appearance (arraignment), the judge will:

• Inform you of the charges
• Advise you of your rights
• Set or review bond conditions
  

This is also the point where bond conditions may restrict travel, firearm possession, or contact with the alleged victim. Without a lawyer, you risk agreeing to conditions that make your life more difficult than necessary.

Pretrial Hearings & Discovery

This is where much of the legal battle takes place. Your attorney will:

• Request the State’s evidence (police reports, 911 calls, bodycam footage, medical records)
• File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
• Subpoena witnesses or records to support your defense
  

In Harris County, for example, pretrial dockets are large, and prosecutors often push for quick plea deals. In Fort Bend County, judges may be stricter with deadlines. In Galveston and Brazoria, smaller dockets sometimes allow more direct negotiation with prosecutors. A lawyer who knows the local courts makes all the difference.

Plea Negotiations

Most family violence cases are resolved through plea negotiations—not trial. But plea deals can carry devastating consequences if handled poorly. Even deferred adjudication may leave a “family violence finding” on your record that can never be removed.

A strong defense lawyer can negotiate for:

• Dismissal of charges
• Reduction to non-family violence offenses
• Diversion programs that avoid a permanent record

Trial

If your case goes to trial, prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. They may rely on:

• Police officer testimony
• Alleged victim statements (even if recanted)
• Photos, 911 recordings, or medical records
  

Your lawyer will challenge this evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present your defense—whether self-defense, lack of intent, or false allegations.

Why You Need a Lawyer for the Court Process

Every step of the process is stacked against you. Prosecutors in Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, and Galveston Countiestreat these cases as a priority. Without skilled representation, you risk jail, fines, protective orders, firearm bans, and permanent damage to your record.

An experienced family assault lawyer near you can:

• Navigate local court procedures
• Push back against aggressive prosecutors
• Protect your rights at every stage
• Work toward the best possible outcome—dismissal, reduction, or acquittal

Take Action Now

The family violence court process in Texas moves quickly. Don’t let the State gain an advantage before you even begin your defense.

Call Walker Law Office today at (713) 228-2611 or contact us online. Our experienced attorney near you will fight for you in Harris, Fort Bend, Galveston, and Brazoria County courts.