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130 E. Travis Street, Suite 425 | San Antonio, Texas 78205
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Domestic Violence

San Antonio Domestic Violence Attorney Provides a Diligent Defense

Dedicated Texas criminal defense lawyer works to protect your reputation

Domestic violence is a widespread problem, but because this charge gets so much publicity, allegations can be an easy cudgel to use against estranged spouses, family members and former intimates when any conflicts exist. This is exactly why Tylden Shaeffer, Attorney at Law, P.C. provides determined defense representation for clients in San Antonio and the surrounding areas accused of domestic violence. I will ensure your due process rights are respected, so you get your day in court and can present your side of the story to an impartial judge. If I can prove the allegations false, I can help preserve your good name and your freedom. If the facts are against you, I can take affirmative steps to limit the repercussions so you can protect your reputation.

How Texas defines domestic violence

Under Texas law, domestic violence occurs when a family member, partner or ex-partner physically or psychologically tries to dominate and/or abuse the other. This includes physical assault such as hitting, pushing or shoving, sexual abuse and stalking. Most often, violence is between spouses who have children but may also include non-married intimate partners and cohabitants.

Common forms of domestic violence include:

  • Assault and aggravated assault
  • Spousal abuse
  • Child abuse
  • Elder abuse
  • Sexual assault
  • Kidnapping or unlawful confinement

Texas law allows for criminal charges as well as civil remedies, such as a restraining order. If someone has filed a restraining order against you or charged you with any of these offenses, it’s important to seek skilled counsel as soon as possible. I am prepared to uphold your rights.

Proven advocate understands the penalties for domestic violence and assault

Texas Penal Code § 22.01 governs the crime of assault, which is generally a misdemeanor but can be a felony if it qualifies as domestic violence and the alleged assailant has a prior conviction. Depending on the circumstances, a defendant could be charged with felonies such as aggravated assault or sexual assault. That means someone accused of domestic violence could face serious jail time as well as fines, mandatory counseling, and community service, and lose the right to possess a firearm. These consequences make it imperative that you retain a capable criminal defense attorney immediately.

Texas attorney advises clients facing orders of protection

Texas law provides for three types of family violence protective orders, commonly known as restraining orders:

  • Temporary ex parte protective order — When a petitioner files a motion with the court alleging family violence, the judge decides whether to issue the temporary order solely on the basis of what the petitioner has alleged. A temporary order typically lasts 20 days but can be extended for an additional 20 days.
  • Final (permanent) protective order — Shortly after the court issues a temporary order, a hearing is held to determine whether a permanent order will be issued. The accused person is present and has the right to be heard. The court will issue a permanent order if it decides that the accused committed the offense of family violence and is likely to do so again. Despite its name, this order is neither final nor permanent. Orders generally last two years (and can be renewed), but the defendant can petition the court after one year to have the order rescinded.
  • Magistrate’s order of emergency protection — If an accused person is arrested for domestic violence, the magistrate of the court issues this order upon request by a guardian, an arresting officer, or the state prosecutor, or at the magistrate’s own discretion. The magistrate must issue this order if the alleged assault resulted in serious injury or involved the use of a deadly weapon.

A restraining order can force you to leave your house and your family immediately. You can be restricted from being anywhere near your home, your children’s school, or other venues where the alleged victim is likely to be found. You might be ordered not to see your children and to pay child and/or spousal support. You could be ordered to surrender your firearms. Failure to obey the terms of the order can result in jail time and fines. With so much at stake, it’s essential to have skilled representation.

Contact a determined San Antonio defense attorney for domestic violence issues

Allegations of domestic violence can ruin your reputation and jeopardize your freedom. Tylden Shaeffer, Attorney at Law, P.C., provides an aggressive defense to these charges. To schedule a free consultation, call (210) 227-1500 or contact my San Antonio office online today.

Testimonials
  • "Mr Shaeffer was up front from the beginning, and I respected that. He told me they have a solid case against me. He is a very out of the box thinker, and very organized. He told me the sad reality of" - Nicoli

  • "I found Mr. Shaeffer to be very responsive, effective, and strategic. There was never any doubt in my mind that he had my best interest at the forefront of his efforts in handling my case." - Ron

  • "When you have been wrongfully accused of having an affair with a student, you must acquire legal counsel before you even speak to the police, even if you are the person who reports the rumors. Tylden Schaeffer advised me to not have a second interview with the police department and found time in his schedule to meet with me that day. After the meeting, I had a path to move forward on and that included a well written statement that Mr. Schaeffer crafted. After submitting this in lieu of a second interview with the police, there were no more problems with the school district or police department. Mr. Schaeffer did a superb job and had me resting more easily following our meetings. I would highly recommend Mr. Schaeffer to anyone in need of a Criminal Defense Attorney." - Anonymous

  • "Tylden has been nothing but excellent while representing me. He’s been very upfront, honest, and cooperative with not only myself, but with my family as well. I don’t just feel like a number, he treats you like if you’re his only client. I’d definitely recommend him to anybody I know if they are in need of legal help. 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend Tylden Shaeffer!" - Joel

  • "Mr Shaeffer was up front from the beginning, and I respected that. He told me they have a solid case against me. He is a very out of the box thinker, and very organized. He told me the sad reality of what could potentially be the outcome of my case, and it was dim. However he asked me what i wanted and was creative enough to deliver at an extremely affordable price. He has the knowledge to defend you, and the experience to win. I’m very happy with how he handled my case. His office is also only blocks away from the court house and he is always prompt. I don’t usually write reviews, but Mr. Tylden Shaeffer deserves to be recognized." - Nicoli

  • "When I got charged with my DWI I already expected to go through a long, painful process from the beginning. But, Mr. Shaeffer and his staff made my whole experience quick and easy with their great communication and professionalism. He was always straight forward and I could tell he had my best interest in mind. He made sure I didn’t get charged with “extreme intoxication”, while also reducing my fines and the length of my probation. I highly recommend him to anyone!" - Alex

  • "Mr. Shaeffer is a great attorney , very professional, very nice and is willing to work with you and help u threw any situation u may have or need help with . I recommend Mr. Shaeffer to anyone who needs help with any kind of legal issues or problems. Anyone who has asked me about an attorney i most definitely tell them Mr. Shaeffer and give them his info. Thank you for all your help and everything u have done for me and my family. You are a awesome attorney! Highly Recommend" - Anonymous

  • "Tylden is a fantastic attorney. He thoroughly prepared for my case and did an amazing job of relating to the judge and jury. I highly recommend Tylden. Would recommend to anyone!" - Skyler

  • "Tylden got my felony reduced to a misdemeanor. He saved my life. I didn’t have to pester him for information and updates about my case and his staff is well informed and helpful. He personally attended each and every one of my hearings and was just as concerned about restoring my reputation as I was. He recently got a motion for non-disclosure filed and approved by the judge so I will never have to admit this mistake ever happened. I would recommend Tylden to anyone! He is a highly intelligent and competent attorney. The Best!" - Anonymous

  • "I was represented by Mr. Shaeffer years ago (2004). He would travel from San Antonio all the way to Del Rio to represent me. My father and I were accused of wrong doing by federal agents and we had done nothing. We, my father and I were on trial simultaneously. We had hired an attorney and found out later he was friends with the prosecutor and wanted us to accept a plea bargain. “We did nothing wrong”, I cried to him. He insisted that we accept due to it being impossible to beat the Government. My father and I were close to giving up when we met Mr. Shaeffer. Mr. Shaeffer believed in us and fought for us. Because of him, I never saw prison walls nor was I ever away from my family. It was one of the most difficult times in my life, but thankfully we met a Godsend attorney and justice prevailed." - Anonymous

Case Results
Intoxication Manslaughter – Reduced Sentence

While client was already on probation for DWI when arrested for Intoxication Manslaughter. Client pleaded guilty to the jury and jury awarded probation where State sought prison term from the jury.

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