CIVIL CLAIMS AFTER CRIMINAL ACTS
Being injured as a result of an assault or other criminal act can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Victims are often left facing medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about what comes next.
You don’t have to face this alone.
Amos Barton Law Firm represents victims of criminal acts and assaults across Texas, helping them pursue civil claims against those responsible. We work to recover compensation for medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts.
Every case is handled with compassion, discretion, and a strong commitment to protecting your rights.
We serve clients throughout the Texas Hill Country, including Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Boerne, Bandera, Junction, Comfort, Ingram, and Center Point.
Understanding Assault Charges and Violent Criminal Acts in Texas
Texas law defines assault broadly, and many people are surprised by how easily certain actions can give rise to both criminal charges and civil injury claims. While assault is distinct from other violent offenses, the facts of an incident can overlap, making it important to understand how these definitions may affect your legal options.
Under Texas law, assault may involve:
-
Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury
-
Threatening another person with imminent bodily harm
-
Engaging in physical contact that is reasonably considered offensive or provocative
Texas penal code specifically classifies these actions or threats of harm as assault when committed against a person's spouse.
Other violent criminal acts may include robbery, domestic violence–related offenses, or crimes involving weapons. These cases often depend on witness statements, physical evidence, and how the incident is interpreted by law enforcement.
Common situations that lead to assault or violent crime allegations include:
-
Domestic or family disputes
-
Bar or nightclub altercations
-
Neighborhood or road-rage incidents
-
Workplace or school-related conflicts
-
Situations involving self-defense claims
Understanding how your charge is classified is a critical first step in building an effective case against your assailant.
CASES WE
HANDLE
Criminal acts can leave victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial loss. We pursue civil claims to recover what was taken from you.
ASSAULT & BATTERY
Civil claims for physical attacks causing injury or trauma.
VICTIMS OF VIOLENT CRIMES
Representation for harm caused by intentional acts of violence.
INJURIES FROM CRIMINAL CONDUCT
Cases involving harm during criminal activity.
NEGLIGENT SECURITY & THIRD PARTY LIABILITY
Failure to provide adequate safety measures that contribute to criminal acts.
Degrees of Assault and Potential Criminal Penalties
Assault charges in Texas vary in severity, and penalties depend on the specific facts of the case. Common assault-related charges victims can pursue include:
-
Simple assault is often charged as a misdemeanor.
-
Aggravated assault, which may involve serious bodily injury or a deadly weapon
-
Assault involving protected individuals, such as family members, public servants, or law enforcement officers
Factors that may elevate charges to felony charges include:
-
Use or display of a weapon.
-
Severity of alleged injuries
-
Prior criminal history
-
Relationship between the parties involved
The consequences of a violent criminal act extend far beyond the incident itself and can affect nearly every part of a victim’s life. Survivors may face lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges, including:
-
Significant medical expenses and ongoing treatment costs
-
Lost income or reduced earning capacity due to injury or trauma
-
Emotional distress, pain and suffering, and psychological counseling needs
-
Long-term disruptions to daily life, personal relationships, and overall well-being
-
Ongoing safety concerns and the stress of navigating the legal process
Pursuing a civil claim can help hold responsible parties accountable and provide the financial support needed to move forward with recovery and stability. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you understand how the severity of the assault impacts your civil claim and pursue the full compensation you deserve for your injuries, losses, and long-term recovery needs.
Why Early Prosecution Strategy Matters in Violent Crime Cases
The actions taken immediately after a violent crime can have a major impact on your ability to pursue justice and financial recovery. From the earliest moments following an assault or criminal act, evidence, witness statements, and official reports begin shaping what comes next.
Acting quickly allows your legal team to protect your interests while critical details are still fresh. Early involvement from a personal injury attorney allows us to:
-
Review police reports and incident documentation for accuracy and completeness
-
Preserve physical evidence, surveillance footage, and witness testimony
-
Identify all potentially liable parties, including third parties who may share responsibility
-
Coordinate with ongoing criminal proceedings while keeping your civil claim moving forward
Prompt legal representation helps safeguard your rights, strengthen your claim, and position your case for the best possible outcome, so you can focus on healing, recovery, and rebuilding your life.
CRIMINAL CASE VS CIVIL CLAIM
A criminal case is handled by the state and focuses on punishment. A civil claim allows victims to pursue financial compensation for their injuries. Both can happen at the same time.
CRIMINAL CASE
The state prosecutes the offender. Outcomes may include jail time or fines.
CIVIL CLAIM
The victim files a claim to recover damages, including medical costs, lost income, and emotional distress.
COMPENSATION MAY INCLUDE
Violent crimes often result in serious financial and personal losses. We help clients recover compensation for the full impact of their injuries.
ADDITIONAL LIABLE PARTIES
Liability may extend beyond the individual responsible. Property owners, businesses, and other third parties may be held accountable for unsafe conditions.
Property owners and managers responsible for unsafe premises
Businesses that fail to provide adequate security.
Third parties with negligent safety practices
Speak with a Criminal Acts & Assaults Attorney at Amos Barton Law Firm
Amos Barton Law Firm represents individuals who have been injured as a result of criminal acts and assaults across Texas. These incidents are often traumatic, unexpected, and life-altering, and we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll they can take on victims and their families. Our firm approaches every case with compassion, discretion, and a strong focus on accountability.
When you work with Amos Barton Law Firm, you can expect:
-
Confidential consultations that prioritize your comfort and privacy
-
A personalized legal strategy focused on pursuing compensation from responsible parties
-
Clear, consistent communication so you understand your rights and options
-
Dedicated advocacy aimed at helping you recover damages and move forward with confidence
If you were harmed due to an assault or other criminal act, you may have the right to pursue compensation beyond any criminal proceedings. Contact Amos Barton Law Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss how we can help protect your interests and your future.