Violent Crime Attorney in Missouri City

Get Trusted Defense & Support for Violent Crime Charges

If you or someone you care about has been accused of a violent offense in Missouri City, TX, you deserve a violent crime defense lawyer who understands both prosecution and defense. At The Sims Law Firm, PLLC, we recognize how urgent strong legal representation is when facing charges like assault, aggravated assault, robbery, or domestic violence. 

Led by Attorney Brandon Sims, our team delivers strategic guidance, clear communication, and consistent support throughout your case.

Choosing the right legal defense means working with professionals who listen, respond promptly, and approach your situation with respect. When you contact our firm, we keep your goals at the center of our strategy and explain each step. Because trust matters, we build relationships through honest communication and careful guidance from the beginning.

Don't let a violent crime charge define your future. Schedule your free consultation right now—Call us 24/7 at (713) 766-1445 or contact our firm online to speak with a violent crime attorney in Missouri City today.

Understanding Texas Violent Crimes

Texas law classifies violent crimes based on the threat or use of force, or the degree of harm inflicted, with penalties escalating through the felony system. A successful defense by a Missouri City violent crime defense lawyer focuses on challenging the elements that elevate the crime and trigger mandatory minimums.

Key Violent Felonies We Defend

• Aggravated Assault (PC § 22.02): Assault causing serious bodily injury or assault using a deadly weapon. This is a First or Second Degree Felony, carrying up to 20 years or life in prison.
• Robbery (PC § 29.02) and Aggravated Robbery (PC § 29.03): Robbery (theft by force) is a Second Degree Felony. Aggravated Robbery (using a deadly weapon or causing serious bodily injury) is a First Degree Felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life.
• Murder (PC § 19.02): A First Degree Felony, carrying 5 to 99 years or life.
• Manslaughter (PC § 19.04): Recklessly causing the death of another person. Classified as a Second Degree Felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison.
• Criminally Negligent Homicide (PC § 19.05): Causing death through criminal negligence. Charged as a State Jail Felony, punishable by up to 2 years in a state jail facility.
• Kidnapping (PC § 20.03) and Aggravated Kidnapping (PC § 20.04): Kidnapping involves unlawfully restraining a person with intent to prevent their liberation. Aggravated Kidnapping, involving ransom, injury, or a deadly weapon, is a First Degree Felony.
• Domestic Violence Assault / Assault Family Violence (PC § 22.01): Physical harm, threat, or offensive contact against a family or household member. Penalties range from a Class A Misdemeanor to a First Degree Felony, depending on prior offenses or injury severity.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Violent Crime Convictions in Texas

A conviction for a violent crime carries severe, life-altering penalties far beyond the courtroom. A successful defense by a seasoned Missouri City violent crime defense lawyer is the only way to safeguard your future.

Direct Consequences

Texas law imposes harsh penalties, ranging from misdemeanor penalties to decades in state prison:

• Misdemeanor Assault: Up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000.
• Third-Degree Felony (e.g., Aggravated Assault with no serious injury): 2 to 10 years in state prison and a fine up to $10,000.
• Second-Degree Felony (e.g., Robbery): 2 to 20 years in state prison and a fine up to $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony (e.g., Aggravated Robbery, Murder): 5 to 99 years or life in state prison and a fine up to $10,000.

Depending on the charge, you may also face mandatory participation in anger management or domestic violence programs, strict probation conditions, and court-ordered restitution to the alleged victim.

Collateral Consequences

The impact of a violent crime conviction lingers long after any sentence is served. These secondary consequences can cripple your ability to live a normal life:

• Employment: A felony conviction is a near-permanent barrier to professional licensing (e.g., healthcare, finance, real estate) and can disqualify you from most jobs requiring background checks.
• Housing: Landlords often deny tenancy to individuals with violent offense records.
• Firearm Rights: A conviction for any violent felony crime will result in the loss of your right to possess firearms under both state and federal law.
• Reputation and Family Life: The social stigma of a violent offense can irreparably damage personal and family relationships.
• Immigration Status: For non-citizens, a violent crime conviction can lead to deportation or render you inadmissible to the United States.

We consider these collateral consequences when crafting your defense, fighting not just for acquittal, but for the preservation of your future quality of life.

The Texas Criminal Defense Process for Violent Crimes Charges

Navigating the Texas criminal justice system is complex and intimidating. As your violent crime attorney in Missouri City, we guide you through every stage, ensuring your rights are protected and you understand what comes next.

• Investigation and Arrest: The process begins with law enforcement investigating the alleged crime, which may lead to an arrest. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Our firm advises clients to exercise these rights immediately.
• Magistration and Bail Hearing: Following an arrest, you are taken before a magistrate. This judge informs you of the charges and sets the conditions of your release, including bail. We fight at this early stage to secure the lowest possible bail amount or argue for release on your own recognizance (Personal Recognizance Bond).
• Grand Jury Review (for Felonies): For felony charges, the prosecution must present its case to a grand jury. The grand jury decides if there is enough probable cause to issue a formal indictment. A skilled Missouri City violent crime defense lawyer may, in some rare cases, attempt to present evidence to the grand jury to prevent an indictment from being issued ("no-bill").
• Arraignment: This is the first official court appearance after indictment. You formally enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
• Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: This is a crucial defense period. We thoroughly review all evidence the State intends to use (discovery). Our firm files motions—such as a Motion to Suppress Illegally Obtained Evidence or a Motion to Dismiss—to weaken or eliminate the State’s case before a trial even begins.
• Plea Bargaining: We negotiate with the prosecutor to potentially secure a favorable plea agreement, though our ultimate goal is always to have the charge dismissed or secure an acquittal.
• Trial: If a satisfactory resolution cannot be reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial. Our firm excels in the courtroom, leveraging our deep experience to present your case effectively.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Violent Crimes Defense

As a dedicated violent crime attorney in Missouri City, The Sims Law Firm, PLLC employs strategic, evidence-based methods tailored to the specific facts of your case. Our firm's strategies are built on a foundation of proactive investigation and challenging the State's assumptions.

• Self-Defense/Defense of Others: Texas law provides a robust right to self-defense. We meticulously investigate the circumstances to determine if your actions were justified under the law, arguing that you were protecting yourself or another from harm.
• Mistaken Identity: If the State relies on shaky or contradictory eyewitness testimony, we will challenge its reliability using expert testimony or demonstrating inconsistencies in the identification process.
• Challenging the Mens Rea: For serious charges, we may argue that while an injury occurred, the act was reckless, negligent, or accidental, not intentional. This strategy aims to secure a dismissal or a reduction to a lesser offense.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: Evidence obtained through an unlawful search or violation of your Miranda rights is inadmissible in court. Our firm aggressively files Motions to Suppress to exclude this evidence, often crippling the prosecution's case.
• Mitigation and Sentencing: Even when evidence is overwhelming, we work to develop a strong mitigation package that highlights your positive character, employment history, and community ties, which can lead to a reduced sentence or a favorable community supervision (probation) arrangement.

We are former prosecutors, meaning we know exactly how the State builds its case and where its vulnerabilities lie. Our firm uses this insider knowledge to anticipate the opposition's moves and construct an airtight defense for you.

Why Work with Our Violent Crime Defense Lawyers in Missouri City

With over 17 years of criminal law experience in Fort Bend County, our firm brings valuable insight to every case. Our background includes both felony prosecution and criminal defense, so we anticipate the prosecution’s arguments and develop effective responses. 

We respond quickly, treat every client with respect, and work hard to protect your rights at every stage.

• Former felony prosecutor’s perspective: We use our experience on both sides of the courtroom to challenge the government’s case from multiple angles.
• Local experience in Missouri City and Fort Bend County courts: Our insight into local rules helps us overcome challenges unique to this region.
• Personalized defense strategies: We shape our legal strategy around your circumstances and the facts of your case, never a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Prompt communication: When your case moves quickly, we make sure you get answers and guidance when you need them.

People in Missouri City and the greater Fort Bend County area trust our practical approach to legal defense. Our thorough case reviews and strong knowledge of local courts allow us to anticipate developments and keep you informed at every step. Open communication and accessibility help reduce anxiety and provide peace of mind. Our local relationships with legal professionals and the familiarity with court processes help ensure that you benefit from a true understanding of Missouri City’s legal landscape.

Contact a Violent Crime Lawyer in Missouri City Today

If you or a loved one faces charges for a violent crime in Missouri City, knowledgeable support can help you move forward with clarity and confidence. At The Sims Law Firm, PLLC, we listen, offer straightforward advice, and act quickly to protect your rights. Our team combines deep courtroom experience, strategic planning, and personal commitment to every client. 

Call (713) 766-1445 or reach out today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how a personalized defense can support your future.

Frequently Asked Questions