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San Antonio Assault Defense Attorney

Last updated on February 25, 2026

Assault charges in Texas are taken very seriously and can have severe consequences for those convicted. It is essential to understand that there are different degrees of assault, each carrying specific circumstances and penalties. Consult with our assault lawyer in San Antonio as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best defense. We can help you navigate the criminal justice system, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to have the charges against you reduced or even dismissed. It is important to remember that being charged with assault does not mean you are guilty and that you have the right to a fair trial. With the help of a skilled attorney, you can fight for your rights and freedom.

Assault Charges in Texas

The different Types of assault in Texas include:

  • Simple Assault
  • Aggravated Assault
  • Sexual Assault
  • Aggravated Sexual Assault

Our San Antonio assault attorney is dedicated to fighting for the rights of the accused. We use a comprehensive knowledge of the law and extensive experience in the legal system to give you the best chance at freedom. When you come to our firm, we thoroughly analyze your case’s facts and circumstances to build a personalized strategy for your defense.

Are you facing assault charges in Texas? Call the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski today at 210-879-6503 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our assault attorney in San Antonio!

Assault Penalties in Texas

Under the terms of Texas Penal Code §22.01, “Assault,” there are three basic types:

  • In the first, the alleged perpetrator intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another person.
  • In the second, the perpetrator threatens such harm to the other person.
  • In the third, the perpetrator intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with another person despite knowing that the other person will regard this contact as being offensive or provocative.

The first type of assault listed above is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, with a maximum sentence of up to a year in jail and fines of up to $4,000, whereas the other two listed are charged as Class C misdemeanors, punishable by a $500 fine.

What are the Penalties for Aggravated Assault in Texas?

Aggravated assault is considered a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Penalties for a first-degree felony of aggravated assault can result in a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Assault may be charged as a first-degree felony under certain circumstances:

  • If the perpetrator uses a deadly weapon to injure a family member
  • If the victim is a public servant
  • If the crime is retaliation against a witness in another criminal proceeding

Assault charges in Texas can be increased to aggravated assault for cases in which the victim suffers serious bodily injury, such as a life-threatening injury or one which results in disfigurement or permanent disability. An assault charge might also be considered aggravated if the defendant is accused of using or exhibiting a deadly weapon, such as a knife or firearm.

Understanding Simple Assault And Misdemeanor Charges In San Antonio

In Texas, misdemeanor simple assault is one of the most common criminal charges. Under state law, simple assault is intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, threatening someone with imminent bodily harm or making physical contact in a way considered offensive or provocative. Even if no injury occurs, words or actions that make another person fear harm can still lead to an arrest. 

When classified as a misdemeanor, these charges are less severe than felony cases, but they still carry serious consequences. Depending on the circumstances, a simple assault may be charged as a Class C, Class B or Class A misdemeanor. 

The severity depends on whether the alleged assault caused bodily injury, involved threats or included physical contact. In more serious cases, such as family assault violence or felony aggravated assault, the charges can escalate quickly, leading to harsher penalties. 

The legal consequences of a conviction can be significant:

  • Fines and jail time: Misdemeanor convictions may result in fines up to $4,000 and up to one year in county jail.
  • Criminal record: A conviction creates a permanent record, affecting employment, housing and professional opportunities.
  • Protective orders: In cases involving assault and family violence, the court may issue a protective order, restricting contact with the alleged victim.
  • Enhanced charges: Repeat offenses or certain circumstances, such as the use of a weapon, may increase the charges to a felony, including felony aggravated assault.
  • Loss of firearm rights: Certain assault convictions, especially those involving family violence, can result in restrictions on owning or possessing firearms.
  • Impact on child custody: In family-related cases, a conviction may influence custody or visitation rights, often to the disadvantage of the accused. 
  • Immigration issues: Noncitizens may face deportation or denial of future immigration benefits if convicted of assault-related offenses. 

Potential defenses may include lack of intent, self-defense, defense of others or false accusations. Our experienced assault defense attorney will review the facts, challenge the evidence and seek to reduce or dismiss the charges when possible. 

Because the impact of a misdemeanor or assault-related conviction can follow someone for life, it is essential to work with a skilled San Antonio assault lawyer. Legal guidance helps ensure your rights are protected and that the strongest defense is presented at every stage of the case.

Protecting Your Professional License After An Assault Arrest In San Antonio

In San Antonio, an assault arrest can threaten a career before a criminal case is resolved. Under Texas Occupations Code § 53.021, licensing boards may suspend or revoke a license if a conviction directly relates to the duties of the profession. Assault is categorized as a crime involving moral turpitude or violence, which places licensed professionals at immediate risk. Even a pending charge can trigger investigations, mandatory self-reporting requirements and temporary work restrictions.

For professionals across Bexar County, the consequences extend beyond the possibility of jail time or fines. An assault arrest can trigger serious professional and financial repercussions that begin almost immediately after charges are filed. Some of the consequences may include:

  • License suspension or revocation: Licensing boards such as the Texas Board of Nursing or SBEC may suspend a license during an investigation or permanently revoke it after a qualifying conviction.
  • Mandatory reporting and disciplinary hearings: Many professionals are required to self-report arrests. This can lead to formal investigations, public disciplinary records and administrative hearings separate from the criminal case.
  • Employment termination or contract nonrenewal: Hospitals, school districts like NISD or SAISD and military commands at JBSA place employees on administrative leave or terminate employment solely because of pending charges.
  • Long-term reputational damage: Even without a conviction, an arrest record can affect promotions, credentialing, security clearances and future job opportunities.

These consequences demonstrate why an assault allegation is not just a criminal matter. For licensed professionals in San Antonio, early legal representation is critical to protect both their freedom and their career. The factors that can influence how boards respond to an arrest include:

  • The classification of the charge: The distinction between felony vs. misdemeanor assault under Texas law is significant. Felony allegations, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, carry a greater likelihood of suspension or revocation.
  • Whether violence is alleged: Boards often view violent conduct as directly related to professions that require public trust and safety.
  • The presence of mitigating factors: Claims involving self-defense laws in Texas assault cases may substantially affect criminal and administrative outcomes.

Because licensing boards conduct independent reviews, a dismissed or reduced charge does not automatically end disciplinary proceedings. Professionals must often provide documentation, attend hearings and demonstrate rehabilitation or compliance. A coordinated defense strategy is essential to address both the criminal case and the licensing risk.

Contact Our Assault Attorney Today

One of the most common strategies for fighting an assault charge in Texas is to argue that the suspect was acting in self-defense. Police officers who arrive at the scene of an assault incident often assume that the person with more severe wounds is the victim. In contrast, this person may have been the aggressor. Similarly, they might arrest the wrong person based on the false statements of the aggressor and his or her friends.

Whether you have been falsely accused or if you committed the crime and need help seeking a second chance, come to the Law Office of Kerrisa Chelkowski. I have a background as a Bexar County prosecutor and have handled hundreds of misdemeanor and felony cases in my career as a San Antonio defense attorney. Let me fight for you!

Fill out an online, confidential form today or give me a call 210-879-6503 and let me review your case. As a 10.0 Superb Avvo-rated lawyer with an exceptional track record of success, I will do everything in my power to see that a positive outcome is reached. Included in the Texas Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠ list for six consecutive years from 2009-2014, I have been rated among the top 2.5% of attorneys in Texas.