Galleria Assault Lawyer

Assault Attorney in Galleria, TX

Assault is a serious crime to be accused of. Convictions can result in fines, jail or prison time, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. It’s understandable to feel frightened and confused. A Galleria assault lawyer can defend you in your case, be at your side for every stage, and minimize the situation’s impact on your life.

About Surginer Stewart PLLC

Our team at Surginer Stewart PLLC has over 30 years of combined experience representing the people of the Galleria, Harris County, and cities across Texas in their assault cases. We’ve handled a range of criminal offenses, from simple assault to murder. Co-founding attorney Justin Surginer was selected as a Rising Star each year from 2016 to 2023 by Super Lawyers, and maintains a 10.0 rating on legal website Avvo.

Although awards and recognition do not guarantee future results, and selection criteria vary by organization, this is a representation of our legal team’s ability and dedication.

Texas Assault Laws

Assault is one of the most common violent crimes. In 2025, Texas saw 435,423 assault cases across the state. During the same period, Harris County had 108,557 incidents of assault. Houston Council District G had the third-lowest count of aggravated assault cases with 835 counts.

Assault in Texas is defined as someone attempting, threatening, or causing bodily injury to another person. Offensive contact, like shoving someone, can also be classified as assault. The default classification for events that cause injury is a Class A misdemeanor, while threats or offensive contact is a Class C misdemeanor.

Aggravating factors can increase the charges to felonies. Examples include:

• Causing serious bodily injury
• Use of a firearm, knife, or any deadly weapon
• Assaulting someone in a protected class, which includes police officers, public servants, elderly individuals, or disabled persons
• Attacks against a spouse, romantic partner, or family member
• Strangulation or suffocation
• Assault committed during another criminal act
• Prior convictions
• Hate crime
• Disproportionate response or continuous attacks after the threat is gone

Penalties for Assault in Galleria, Texas

The penalties for an assault conviction in Galleria, Texas, depend on the specific charge. Class C misdemeanors are punished by up to $500 in fines, and Class A misdemeanors can result in one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

Felony-level assault charges all carry $10,000 fines but separate prison sentences. These range from state jail felony terms of between 180 days to 2 years in state jail, up to first-degree felonies that carry 5-99 years or life in prison.

Assault Defense Strategies

The strongest defense against an assault charge depends on the details of your situation. A few common tactics utilized include:

• Self-defense or defense of others: This is one of the most frequently used and effective defenses.
• Lack of intent: Any injury or offense towards an alleged victim was unintentional.
• Consent: A classified event occurred, but was consensual.
• Mistaken identity: The defendant was mistaken for the true culprit.
• Procedural errors: Law enforcement and prosecutors are required to follow protocol throughout an assault case. Procedural errors like illegal search and seizure or failing to read Miranda rights during an arrest can be used to dismiss charges.
• Insufficient evidence: Prosecutors must have enough evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Alibi: The defendant has proof of being somewhere else when the event took place.
• Imbalance escalation: Someone may have been involved in a fight, but did not start it or escalate an incident.
• Protection of property: Texas law allows someone to use justifiable force to defend their property.

Hire an Assault Lawyer in Galleria

Assault cases can be overwhelming and challenging to navigate on your own. While you may represent yourself, it is recommended that you hire an assault lawyer to defend you. Your Galleria assault attorney can advocate for you during police interrogations, choose an effective defense strategy, highlight procedural errors, and represent you in court.

If a conviction seems likely, they can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce penalties and avoid significant long-term consequences.

FAQs

How Much Does an Assault Attorney Cost in Texas?

The cost of your Texas assault attorney depends on the charges against you, the complexity of the case, whether a trial is necessary, and the total workload for the firm. A simple assault case with mitigating factors and an early plea deal typically costs less than an aggravated assault offense, which proceeds to a jury trial. During your initial consultation, our team can provide a rough estimate for your final bill.

What Courtroom Handles Assault Cases in Galleria?

The courtroom that handles your assault case correlates with the severity of the charge. Misdemeanor matters are seen at the Harris County Criminal Courts at Law, while felony assault charges go through the Harris County District Courts. Both courtrooms are located at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center, located in downtown Houston at 1201 Franklin Street.

What Are Common Mistakes People Make in Texas Assault Cases?

People across Texas can make many mistakes when charged with assault. One common error is the defendant speaking to the police without a lawyer present. Any comment you make can be used against you to argue inconsistency or admissions of guilt. Another frequent mistake Texans make is attempting to make contact with an alleged victim. This can seem like an attempt to threaten or manipulate them, and may violate a protective order.

Can You Avoid Jail for Assault in Texas?

One main concern for those facing assault charges in Texas is whether they can avoid going to jail. Your chances of serving time in jail depend on the injuries sustained by the alleged victims and aggravating factors. A Class C misdemeanor with no injury does not lead to jail time, while aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and serious bodily harm is likely to result in long-term imprisonment. Your attorney can review your case and assess the odds of confinement.

Speak With Our Galleria Assault Lawyer Today

Surginer Stewart PLLC has decades of experience representing people charged with assault. We can be at your side at each stage of the proceedings, from initial charge to final court verdict.

Contact us today to book your first consultation, where we can learn your story and discuss defense strategies. You can also visit our Houston offices, located on Long Point Road, north of Interstate 10, southwest of Schwartz Park, and east of Addicks Reservoir.