Austin Assault Family Violence By Occlusion Lawyer
Last updated on June 18, 2026
At Hildreth & Rueda, our attorneys have more than 20 years of combined legal experience. We proudly defend clients in Austin and throughout Travis County. We understand that good people can end up in difficult situations. We work hard to find answers and put you in a strong position to defend your future.
What “Occlusion” Means Under Texas Law
Under Texas Penal Code § 22.01(b)(2)(B), occlusion means impeding a person’s normal breathing or blood circulation. This is commonly called choking or strangulation. Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively. You might think the state needs physical evidence to file criminal charges. They do not need to see bruises or red marks on a neck. An accusation alone is enough to trigger an arrest. The consequences are severe. A conviction carries heavy penalties, including two to 10 years in prison.
The Shock Of A Felony Charge
Getting arrested for family violence is terrifying. Adding a choking allegation makes the panic even worse. Just placing a hand near a partner’s neck changes everything:
- It automatically elevates the standard misdemeanor charge of domestic violence to a third-degree felony in Texas.
- Your livelihood, reputation and liberty are all immediately at risk.
- You will be subjected to demanding bail terms and likely forced out of your home by an emergency protective order.
Many individuals underestimate how quickly the potential penalty escalates. A fight quickly becomes an emergency.
Our Criminal Defense Strategies
An arrest in a domestic violence case is not an automatic guilty verdict. Males and females are charged with domestic violence. Every person is entitled to a strong defense. At Hildreth & Rueda, we examine the circumstances of your arrest and develop a defense strategy designed to protect your rights and future:
- False claim: Prove that the accusations made during the intense emotions are untrue.
- Self-defense: Evidence that there was an attack or threat upon yourself and that only this action would save you from being hurt by the opponent.
- Lack of intent: Physical contact occurred, but it was not intentional, and there was no desire or effort to stop the opponent from breathing
If you live in Travis County, you need local legal help. Fill out our online contact form and don’t worry; we’re not afraid to face your toughest issues head-on.
Contact Us Today For A Criminal Defense Free Consultation
Don’t let a family violence charge define the rest of your life. Take the appropriate steps necessary to keep yourself safe and secure. Hildreth & Rueda offers a free consultation – call us at 512-415-7648 immediately or use our online contact form to learn about our solutions.