Arrested for Assault Family Violence in San Antonio? Here’s What Happens Next
- Larry Bloomquist
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Disclaimer
The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship with Larry Dean Bloomquist, Attorney at Law. If you have been accused of a crime, consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney to discuss your case.
Being arrested for assault family violence in San Antonio can feel overwhelming, confusing, and even frightening. In a matter of hours, your life can shift—police involvement, possible jail time, and court dates all happening before you fully understand what’s going on.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, it’s important to understand what happens next—and what you should (and should not) do moving forward.
This guide breaks down the process step-by-step so you can make informed decisions and protect your future.
What Is Assault Family Violence in Texas?
In Texas, assault family violence refers to an alleged act of violence against someone you have a close relationship with, including:
A spouse or ex-spouse
A dating partner
A family member (by blood or marriage)
Someone you live with or have lived with
The charge doesn’t always require serious injury. It can include:
Causing bodily injury
Threatening harm
Physical contact considered offensive or provocative
Because of the relationship involved, these cases are treated more seriously than simple assault charges.
Step 1: The Arrest
In many assault family violence cases, police in San Antonio are required to make an arrest if they believe there is probable cause.
This means:
Even if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges, you can still be arrested
Officers often make quick decisions based on the scene, statements, and visible evidence
Once arrested, you’ll typically be taken to jail for booking.
Step 2: Booking and Jail Processing
After the arrest, you’ll go through the booking process, which includes:
Fingerprinting
Mugshot
Recording personal information
Background checks
Depending on the situation, you may remain in custody until a judge reviews your case.
Step 3: Magistrate Hearing & Bond
Within a short time—often within 24 hours—you’ll appear before a magistrate judge.
During this hearing:
The judge reviews the charges
Sets a bond amount (if eligible)
May issue a protective order
A protective order can:
Prohibit contact with the alleged victim
Prevent you from returning home
Restrict communication, even through third parties
Violating this order can lead to additional criminal charges, so it’s critical to take it seriously.
Step 4: Release From Jail
If a bond is set, you may be released by:
Paying the bond in full
Using a bail bondsman
However, release doesn’t mean the case is over—it’s just the beginning of the legal process.
Step 5: Formal Charges & Prosecutor Review
After your release, the case is reviewed by the prosecutor.
Here’s something many people don’t realize:
👉 The alleged victim does NOT control whether charges are filed or dropped.
The prosecutor decides how to proceed based on:
Police reports
Witness statements
Evidence (photos, recordings, etc.)
Prior history
Even if the other party wants to “drop the charges,” the case can still move forward.
Step 6: Court Appearances Begin
Your case will be assigned to a court, and you’ll receive a date for your first appearance.
This stage may include:
Arraignment (formal reading of charges)
Pretrial hearings
Motions and evidence review
Having an experienced defense attorney at this stage is critical. Early decisions can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Step 7: Possible Outcomes
Every case is different, but common outcomes include:
1. Case Dismissal
If there is insufficient evidence or legal issues with the arrest, your attorney may be able to get the case dismissed.
2. Reduction of Charges
In some cases, felony charges can be reduced to misdemeanors, or charges may be lowered based on circumstances.
3. Plea Agreement
You may be offered a plea deal, which could include:
Probation
Counseling programs
Fines
4. Trial
If no agreement is reached, your case may go to trial, where a judge or jury determines the outcome.
What Are the Potential Penalties?
Assault family violence charges in Texas can carry serious consequences:
Class A Misdemeanor
Up to 1 year in jail
Up to $4,000 in fines
Felony Charges (in certain situations)
Charges can be elevated to a felony if:
There are prior convictions
The allegation involves choking/strangulation
A weapon was involved
Felony convictions can result in:
2 to 10 years in prison
Significant fines
Long-term impact on employment and housing
The Long-Term Consequences
Even beyond jail time or fines, a conviction can affect:
Your ability to own or possess firearms
Employment opportunities
Housing applications
Child custody arrangements
This is why it’s so important to take these charges seriously from the very beginning.
What You Should Do Immediately
If you’ve been arrested for assault family violence, your next steps matter.
✔ Do:
Remain calm and respectful with law enforcement
Follow all bond and protective order conditions
Contact a defense attorney as soon as possible
❌ Don’t:
Contact the alleged victim (even if they reach out)
Post about the situation on social media
Assume the case will “go away” on its own
Why Hiring a Defense Attorney Early Matters
Assault family violence cases often move quickly—and early mistakes can be costly.
An experienced San Antonio defense attorney can:
Review evidence for inconsistencies
Identify violations of your rights
Challenge weak or exaggerated claims
Negotiate with prosecutors
Build a strong defense strategy
The earlier you involve an attorney, the more options you typically have.
Talk to a San Antonio Assault Family Violence Lawyer Today
If you’ve been arrested for assault family violence, you don’t have to navigate this alone.
These cases are complex, emotional, and high-stakes—but the right legal strategy can make a significant difference in your outcome.
Larry Bloomquist has extensive experience defending individuals facing serious criminal charges in San Antonio and understands how to protect your rights at every stage of the process.
Schedule a Consultation
If you or someone you care about has been arrested, don’t wait.
Taking action early can help protect your record, your freedom, and your future: https://www.sacrimelaw.com/san-antonio-family-violence-lawyer
Comments