Threats and Its Consequences in Texas Law
Freedom of speech is a foundational principle deeply ingrained in the legal heritage of the United States. It’s important to know that “free speech” doesn’t mean people can say anything without consequences or responsibility. Threatening to harm a person or organization is a crime under the Texas Penal Code. While freedom of expression is one […]
Self-Defense: Understanding Your Rights in Texas
In our fast-paced world, knowing how to protect yourself and others is a critical skill. Fortunately, Texas law recognizes the importance of self-defense and allows individuals to use force when faced with imminent threats. Understanding self-defense laws is important for protecting your rights effectively, as cases of attempted use of unlawful force happen regularly. This […]
What Constitutes Assault against a Family Member?
Under Texas law, assaulting a family member is a criminal offense. This happens when a person knowingly, or recklessly causes harm to a family member. Any physical contact that is deemed “offensive or provocative” can be considered assault, as well as threatening to physically harm someone. Research conducted in 2011 at the University of Texas […]
Human Trafficking in Texas
Texas Penal Code Chapter 20A.02 governs the significant issue of human trafficking, also known as modern slavery. It threatens security and human rights. Exploiting individuals through forced labor and commercial sex not only profits traffickers but also harms victims and communities. With a global estimate of approximately 27.6 million victims worldwide, it’s a widespread issue […]
Hate Crime: Enhancement of Punishment
Hate crimes are on the rise in the United States, reaching record highs in more than a decade. Every day, people are targeted with violence because of their identity, like their race, religion, color, or sexual orientation. These terrible acts are committed because of bias or prejudice and not only hurt individuals but also harm […]
What is the Nature of a Domestic Assault in Texas?
Under Texas law, domestic assault means violence or threats against a family or household member. The term “family or household member” typically includes various types of relationships, like spouses (current or former), parents, children, individuals in a dating relationship, and people who have lived together in the same household, either presently or in the past. […]
The Difference Between Self-Defense and Assault
Determining whether a physical altercation is self-defense or assault can be challenging. Knowing when you’ve crossed the line in defending yourself or others is not easy. And unfortunately, there are times when physical violence is unavoidable. If someone physically attacks you, you have the right to defend yourself legally. But it’s important to understand that […]
Child Pornography: Legal Definition and Penalties
Child pornography is a significant legal issue with severe consequences under both state and federal law. Possession, distribution, and creation of child pornography are criminal violations in Texas, like they are in many other countries in the United States, and can result in harsh punishments such as lengthy prison sentences and lifelong registration as a […]
Capital Punishment: Crimes Punishable by Death
In Texas, capital punishment carries immense weight. It is the ultimate form of criminal punishment, therefore, understanding the circumstances that qualify offenders for this penalty is important. This article explores crimes that can result in the death penalty in Texas. It discusses the laws, factors that make a crime worse or less severe, and the […]
Domestic Violence in Same-Sex Relationships in Texas
Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects people regardless of their sexual orientation. Despite growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ communities, we frequently overlook the specific challenges faced by individuals in same-sex relationships. Studies indicate that LGBTQ+ individuals are about four times more likely than heterosexuals to face violent crimes, including rape, sexual assault, and various […]