Comparing Simple and Aggravated Assault in Texas

Posted By The Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 5-Feb-2015

When an individual is charged with assault, he is either charged with simple or aggravated assault. The biggest difference is how the two are classified. While simple assaults are classified as misdemeanors, aggravated assaults are classified as felonies and may be punished with significant fines and lengthy prison sentences. In either case, it’s important that you have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. To help you better understand the charges you are up against, here is a look at simple and aggravated assault in Texas.

Simple Assault
Simple assault charges encompass minor injuries, touching, and threatening words or behavior directed at individuals or groups of people. In order to be charged with simple assault based on threatening words or behavior, the alleged victim must truly fear being hurt by the person making the threatening remarks or gestures. As a misdemeanor, simple assault carries a small fine and little to no jail time for a conviction—but that doesn’t mean a criminal defense attorney can’t aggressively fight to have the charges against you dropped.

Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault involves more serious injuries and the addition of weapons into the equation. Even if a deadly weapon is not used on another person, the act of threatening someone with a weapon can be considered aggravated assault. Because aggravated assault is classified as a felony, a guilty verdict can be a life changing event. If you are facing aggravated assault charges, don’t hesitate to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Dallas to begin establishing your defense strategy.

No matter what type of assault charges you are facing, the Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass can help. We handle state and federal criminal defense for clients throughout North Texas communities. Contact us online or call us at to schedule your free initial consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense lawyers.