Aggressive Defense Against Violent Crime Charges in Fort Worth

Former FBI Agent & Law Enforcement Officer Protecting Your Rights and Freedom

When you are facing charges for a violent crime like assault or battery, your liberty is directly on the line. These allegations can stem from a momentary lapse in judgment, a misunderstanding, or a situation where you were simply defending yourself. Regardless of the circumstances, you need a defense attorney who is prepared to fight as hard as the prosecution.

At The Shipley Law Firm, PLLC, Mr. Shipley brings more than 20 years of criminal justice experience to your case. As a former FBI Agent, he understands how investigators gather evidence and how prosecutors build their files. He uses this “insider” knowledge to find the weaknesses in the state’s case and build a proactive defense for residents in Fort Worth and throughout Tarrant County.

Understanding Assault and Battery in Texas

While the terms are often used interchangeably, these charges carry specific legal definitions that can significantly impact your case:

• Assault: Can include the threat of violence or causing someone to fear imminent physical harm.

• Battery: Generally refers to intentional, unwanted, or violent physical contact (such as hitting, kicking, or pushing).

• Broad Interpretation: In Texas, even minor actions like grabbing or spitting can lead to criminal charges if the state believes the contact was provocative or offensive.

Strategic Defense Against Violent Allegations

Assault cases are rarely black and white. Mr. Shipley investigates every detail of the incident to determine the most effective legal strategy, including:

• Self-Defense: Proving that your actions were necessary to protect yourself or others from harm.

• Mutual Combat: Demonstrating that both parties were willing participants in a physical altercation.

• Challenging Intent: Arguing that the contact was accidental or lacked the criminal intent required for a conviction.

• Mitigating Circumstances: Working to show that the incident was an isolated event rather than a pattern of violent behavior.

Fighting for Reduced Charges and Lenient Sentencing

The severity of an assault charge often depends on the state’s interpretation of the facts. You may be facing Aggravated Assault (involving a weapon or serious injury) when the facts actually support a lesser charge.

The Shipley Law Firm, PLLC aggressively utilizes pretrial motions to:

1. Challenge Evidence: Seek to suppress evidence obtained through illegal searches or unreliable witness statements.

2. Negotiate Reductions: Work to get felony charges reduced to misdemeanors whenever possible.

3. Advocate for Leniency: If a conviction is unavoidable, we fight for the most lenient sentence available, such as probation or alternative sentencing.

Put a Veteran Investigator in Your Corner

A violent crime conviction can result in prison time and a permanent record that bars you from many employment opportunities. Don’t face the Texas justice system alone.

Serving Tarrant County | Free Initial Consultations

Contact The Shipley Law Firm, PLLC at 817-882-9999 to speak with an attorney who will prioritize your defense. Calls are returned within 24 hours.