Houston Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer
Arrested for family violence? A former police officer fighting for your rights. Flat-fee representation.
Facing Domestic Violence Charges in Houston? Act Now.
A domestic violence arrest in Texas can happen fast — often based on one person’s statement during a heated moment. But the consequences last a lifetime. Under Texas Penal Code § 22.01, a family violence assault conviction — even a first-time misdemeanor — means up to one year in county jail, a $4,000 fine, and a permanent criminal record that cannot be expunged. You will lose your right to possess firearms under federal law, and any future family violence accusation becomes a third-degree felony punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison.
If you have been arrested or charged with domestic violence in Harris County, Montgomery County, or Galveston County, you need a defense attorney who understands how these cases are investigated — and how to fight them. Attorney Kenneth V. Mitchell is a former police officer who has personally responded to domestic disturbance calls and knows exactly how law enforcement builds these cases.
What Counts as Family Violence in Texas?
Texas law defines family violence broadly. It includes any assault, threat, or act of physical harm against a family member, household member, or current or former dating partner. This means charges can arise from incidents involving spouses, ex-spouses, parents, children, roommates, or anyone you have been in a romantic relationship with. Even grabbing someone’s arm or pushing someone during an argument can result in an arrest and criminal charges.
Common Defenses Against Domestic Violence Charges
Many domestic violence arrests happen in chaotic, emotionally charged situations where police feel pressure to make an arrest — even when the evidence is thin or the story is one-sided. Common defenses we raise in domestic violence cases include:
- Self-defense — You had the right to protect yourself from harm
- False accusation — The accuser fabricated or exaggerated the allegation, often during a custody dispute or divorce
- Lack of evidence — The State cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that an assault occurred
- No bodily injury — The alleged conduct does not meet the legal definition of assault
- Witness credibility — The accuser’s account is inconsistent, contradicted by other evidence, or motivated by revenge
Protective Orders and Emergency Protective Orders
After a domestic violence arrest, the court may issue an Emergency Protective Order (EPO) that prohibits you from contacting the alleged victim, returning to your home, or seeing your children. Violating a protective order is a separate criminal offense. We help you understand the terms of any protective order and fight to have it modified or lifted when appropriate.
Why Hire a Former Police Officer?
Kenneth V. Mitchell has personally responded to domestic disturbance calls as a law enforcement officer. He knows how officers decide who to arrest, how they write their reports, and where they take shortcuts. That inside knowledge is your advantage. We challenge the probable cause for the arrest, identify weaknesses in the police report, interview witnesses the police ignored, and build the strongest possible defense.
Flat-Fee Domestic Violence Defense — No Hourly Billing
You are already dealing with enough stress. At KVM Law Firm, all domestic violence defense matters are handled on a flat-fee basis. You know what your defense costs from day one — no surprise bills, no hourly charges, no ambiguity. Criminal defense matters handled in Harris, Montgomery, and Galveston Counties.