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Assault Attorney in Houston

Arrested Or Accused Of Assault In Houston? Call The Aslett Law Firm

If you have been arrested or accused of assault in Houston, you may be worried about jail, your job, and your future. An argument, a night out, or a family dispute can suddenly turn into a criminal case with serious consequences. You may feel that no one is listening to your side of the story.

I am Stephen Aslett, a criminal defense lawyer and former prosecutor who now focuses his practice on defending people facing accusations like yours. I know how prosecutors in Harris County review assault cases, what they look for in the evidence, and how they make decisions about charges and offers. My role is to guide you through this process and work to protect your record, career, and freedom.

I am board-certified in criminal law in Texas, a distinction held by about one percent of attorneys in the state. I also keep a deliberately low caseload so I can give each case the attention it deserves. If you prefer privacy or have bond conditions that make travel difficult, I offer virtual consultations so we can talk about your situation and next steps as soon as possible.

Speak with a Houston assault lawyer who knows how the other side thinks. At The Aslett Law Firm, I provide elite advocacy and free consultations to protect your rights and your record. Call me at (346) 567-8671 or fill out our online form today.

Understanding Texas Assault Laws

Assault in Texas is defined under Section 22.01 of the Penal Code. You can be charged with assault if you are accused of intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury, threatening someone with imminent harm, or making "offensive or provocative" physical contact.

  • Class A Misdemeanor Assault: This is the most common charge, involving "bodily injury." "Bodily injury" remains broadly defined as anything causing physical pain, but prosecutors are now instructed to pursue these cases more aggressively if any minor bruising or visible marks are present.
  • Aggravated Assault (2nd Degree Felony): This occurs if the assault causes "serious bodily injury" or involves the use or exhibition of a deadly weapon. In 2026, Texas has increased the penalties for aggravated assault if the victim is a public servant, healthcare worker, or teacher.
  • Domestic Assault (Assault–Family Violence): These charges carry severe collateral consequences, including the permanent loss of firearm rights. A Houston assault lawyer is critical here, as 2026 law now allows for "Magistrate’s Orders for Emergency Protection" to be issued more easily, often barring you from your own home for up to 91 days.
  • Continuous Violence Against the Family: If you are accused of two or more domestic assaults within a 12-month period, you can be charged with a third-degree felony, regardless of the severity of the injuries.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Assault Convictions in Harris County

A conviction for assault in Texas is a permanent mark on your record that can't be easily erased.

  • Misdemeanor Penalties: Up to one year in the Harris County Jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
  • Felony Penalties: Aggravated assault carries a range of 2 to 20 years in prison, while first-degree enhancements can lead to life imprisonment.
  • Firearm Restrictions: Under federal and 2026 Texas law, a conviction for any level of domestic assault (even a misdemeanor) results in a lifetime ban on possessing a firearm.
  • Employment and Licensing: Assault is a "crime of violence" that will show up on every background check, often disqualifying you from jobs in teaching, nursing, or corporate leadership.

Why Houston Clients Choose My Assault Approach

Because I worked as a prosecutor before I became a defense attorney, I understand how the Harris County District Attorney’s Office evaluates assault and domestic violence allegations. 

I have seen how cases are built from police reports, body camera footage, witness statements, and 911 calls, and I use that insight to look for weaknesses and opportunities in your defense.

Board certification in criminal law means I have met additional trial and experience requirements. For you, that translates into a lawyer who spends every day in the world of criminal cases and understands how assault charges fit into the larger picture of the Texas Penal Code and local court procedures.

I also limit the number of cases I accept at any one time. This is not a volume practice. A low caseload lets me sit down with you, review the evidence in detail, and prepare you for each court setting at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center. It also means you speak with me about the strategy in your case, not just with staff or a rotating group of lawyers.

Put Board Certified expertise in your corner. If you’ve been arrested for assault in Harris County, The Aslett Law Firm offers the aggressive defense you need. Contact me today at (346) 567-8671 or reach out online for a free consultation and let my experience as a former prosecutor work for you.

Contact Me for Your Consultation

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Focused on Justice, Dedicated to You

Stephen Aslett is here to help you get the results you need.

  • Results That Matter

    When reputations, freedoms, and futures are at stake, practical solutions and dedicated advocacy make all the difference. I am committed to helping my clients move forward with confidence after challenging circumstances.

  • Former Prosecutor’s Insight

    My years of experience as a Harris County felony prosecutor provide valuable insight into what works in criminal cases. This knowledge allows me to craft practical strategies designed to achieve the best possible outcomes.

  • Client-Focused Representation

    Every case is unique, which is why I take a personalized approach. By limiting the number of cases I handle at one time, my clients receive the attention and time necessary to build a defense strategy tailored to their situation.

  • Direct Attorney Access

    My clients work directly with me, ensuring clear communication and consistent support throughout the legal process. I never pass cases off to associates or assistants.

  • Dismissed State v. A.B. (driving with a suspended license)
  • Dismissed State v. A.B. (failure to stop and give information)
  • Writ granted State v. A.B. (writ of habeas corpus)
  • Dismissed State v. A.C. (burglary of a habitation)
  • Dismissed State v. A.C. (DWI 3rd)

    Steps To Take After An Assault Arrest

    The hours and days after an arrest or accusation are critical. What you do now can affect both the strength of your defense and how difficult the process feels. Many people are tempted to try to explain themselves to officers, the alleged victim, or friends. That instinct is natural, but it can also create problems that are hard to undo.

    Practical steps to protect yourself after an assault arrest:

    • Stay calm and use your right to remain silent with law enforcement. You can provide basic identifying information, but you do not have to answer questions about what happened without a lawyer present.
    • Follow all bond conditions and any protective orders. If a Harris County judge orders you not to return to a certain address or to avoid contact with someone, take that seriously, even if you disagree with it.
    • Preserve potential evidence, such as text messages, social media posts, photos, or contact information for witnesses. Do not delete or change anything, and do not ask others to do so for you.
    • Avoid discussing the facts of the incident on social media or in text messages. These communications are often obtained and used in court. Venting online usually creates more risk than benefit.
    • Reach out to an assault lawyer in Houston as soon as you can. Early involvement gives me more time to review the evidence, advise you before important decisions, and help you avoid missteps that could hurt your case.

    When you contact The Aslett Law Firm, we can set a time to talk in person or virtually, depending on what works best for you and your bond conditions. During that first conversation, I will listen to your concerns, gather basic information about the charges, and outline the immediate steps we should take. My goal is to replace as much uncertainty as possible with a clear plan.

    SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION

    • He got my son off a murder charge.
      - Cary W.
    • If you need a criminal defense attorney, this is the lawyer to call.
      - David B.
    • If I didn't have him representing me I'm certain that I would've been convicted on false charges.
      - Shaina W.

      How I Build A Defense In Assault Cases

      Assault cases often hinge on small but critical details—who said what, who acted first, and what witnesses actually observed. My approach begins with listening carefully to your side of the story to understand the full context, not just the version summarized in a police report. From there, I build a strategy grounded in evidence, legal standards, and your long-term goals.

      Key steps in building your defense:

      • Client Interview First: Hear your complete account without judgment to understand context, background, and possible defenses.
      • Evidence Review: Analyze offense reports, body camera footage, 911 recordings, photographs, medical records, and prior statements to identify inconsistencies or gaps.
      • Self-Defense Analysis: Evaluate whether Texas self-defense laws apply, including who was the aggressor and whether the force used was reasonable.
      • Domestic Violence Considerations: Address the added complexity of family or dating relationships, including how prosecutors handle cases when an alleged victim changes their story.
      • Strategic Case Planning: Assess whether trial, negotiated reduction, diversion programs, or treatment-focused resolutions best serve your interests.
      • Long-Term Impact Review: Consider how different outcomes may affect your criminal record and eligibility for future record-related remedies.

      Throughout the process, my goal is to provide clear guidance, realistic expectations, and a defense strategy tailored to both the facts of your case and your future.

      Talk With A Houston Assault Lawyer Today

      If you are facing an assault charge, you do not have to navigate the Harris County criminal courts on your own. As a former prosecutor and board-certified criminal defense attorney who limits my caseload, I offer focused, individualized attention to each client. When you are ready to talk about your options with an assault attorney in Houston, I am here to help. Your consultation is an opportunity to ask questions and start building a path forward.

      Call (346) 567-8671 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation with The Aslett Law Firm.

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