Assault Family Violence Defense in Collin County and Dallas County

When an argument inside the home leads to an arrest, everything changes. A criminal charge for Assault Family Violence (AFV) affects far more than your criminal record — it can impact where you live, whether you can see your children, your employment, and your future relationships.

I defend individuals charged with Assault Family Violence in Collin County and Dallas County, including McKinney, Plano, Frisco, Richardson, and Dallas. While many AFV cases involve family or relationship dynamics, I represent clients in AFV matters whether or not divorce, custody, or protective orders are already involved.

What Texas Law Considers “Family Violence”

Texas law defines family violence broadly. It may involve:

  • A spouse or former spouse
  • A dating or former dating partner
  • A roommate or household member
  • A co-parent
  • Relatives by blood or marriage

An “assault” allegation does not require serious injury. Charges may be filed even when the accusation involves:

  • No visible injury
  • Conflicting accounts
  • A loud argument
  • A push or grab
  • A misunderstanding interpreted as violence

In many cases, an arrest is made even when neither party wants charges filed.

What Happens After an Arrest

Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs)

Following an arrest, a judge may issue an Emergency Protective Order that can include:

  • No contact with the alleged victim
  • Removal from the home
  • Restrictions on communication
  • Firearm possession limitations
  • Limits on seeing your children

These orders are often imposed quickly and without hearing your side first.

CPS Involvement

If children were present or allegations involve a household with minors, Child Protective Services may become involved, even when claims are uncertain or disputed.

Criminal Case Timeline

An AFV case typically progresses through:

  • Arrest and magistrate review
  • Bond conditions
  • Prosecutor evaluation
  • Pretrial hearings or negotiations
  • Trial, dismissal, or resolution

Each stage can carry consequences beyond the courtroom.

How AFV Charges Can Affect Divorce and Custody

A family-violence allegation may:

  • Be raised in divorce proceedings
  • Trigger emergency custody orders
  • Affect visitation or possession schedules
  • Support protective-order requests
  • Influence temporary or permanent custody decisions

Because of these risks, it’s critical to anticipate how criminal proceedings may affect family matters — even when no family case is pending yet.

Defending an AFV Case

Effective AFV defense often involves:

  • Reviewing body-camera footage
  • Investigating whether allegations were exaggerated or false
  • Interviewing witnesses
  • Identifying inconsistencies in statements
  • Analyzing 911 calls
  • Evaluating claimed injuries
  • Reviewing digital evidence (texts, photos, messages)
  • Challenging intent or credibility

Many AFV cases result in dismissals, no-bills, or reduced charges when handled thoughtfully and early.

A Path Forward

Assault Family Violence cases are emotional and disruptive. They can fracture families, escalate conflict, or be misused during relationship breakdowns. I take a calm, strategic, and firm approach to protecting your rights, your record, and your future.

If you are facing an AFV charge — whether it stands alone or carries broader personal consequences — experienced defense matters.

Contact Assault and Family Violence Attorney Keith Gore

Learn more about how Assault and Family Violence Attorney Keith Gore of Gore Law, PPLC can help you. Contact his office in McKinney, Texas, at 972-529-2220.

Schedule a Consultation