Dallas, TX asked in Federal Crimes, Family Law and Domestic Violence for Texas

Q: Can I press charges against my mother for assault to a minor if I just turned 18 in Feb but still live in her house?

I’m still a senior in high school and she tried choking me to death but I punched her in the face to get off of me

2 Lawyer Answers
Grant St Julian III
Grant St Julian III
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Dallas, TX
  • Licensed in Texas

A: You may file an incident report with the police, but it will be up to the detective assigned to the case to determine whether criminal charges will be filed. Also note that if you are 18, after your grduation, your mother no longer has the legal duty to support you. Do not suffer abuse, but do not report somehthing petty. Good luck.

Kiele Linroth Pace
Kiele Linroth Pace
Answered
  • Domestic Violence Lawyer
  • Austin, TX
  • Licensed in Texas

A: One you report it, the situation is out of your hands. They may file felony Assault Impeding Breath Family Violence, and if they do, your mother will be facing two to ten years in the state penitentiary. Although you can refuse to cooperate with the prosecution, they could subpoena you and force you to testify. This situation could go off the rails in a hurry.

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