Texas Introduces Domestic Violence Registry
Most states have sex offender registries that allow them to list those convicted of sex crimes. Rapists, sexual assaulters, child pornography offenders, and others are listed on this registry for the public. The registry is public shaming, and many individuals will steer clear of
sex crimes in order to avoid being put on the state list where anyone can learn about their past offenses. Now, Texas has created a new registry of similar nature for those that are domestic violence offenders.
Every year, thousands of individuals are battered and harmed by family members. In fact, the Texas Department of Public Safety reports that in 2011, 177,983 people reported incidents of domestic violence. 40% of these incidents were against a spouse, and about 16% of the acts of violence were against children. 44% of all domestic violence acts involved violence against an immediate family member.
Because of this, the state has decided to list all persons convicted of domestic violence or domestic abuse on a registry. The registry will show their names, birth dates, and even mug shots. If you have been charged with a domestic violence crime, you will want an attorney there to represent you in court. If you fail to prove that you are innocent of your crime, you may be placed in this registry where your reputation will be damaged. Currently, the registry is reserved for individuals with three or more domestic violence convictions.
An attorney at The Martinez Law Firm can help you if you have been accused of a violent crime against a family member. Many times, domestic violence cases are over-exaggerated or can be fabricated by a bitter family member. Commonly, women will report that their partners or husbands abused them, even if this is not true. The courts tend to believe women over men in these situations, and an innocent husband or father may be jailed as a result. If you’re looking for the best Houston criminal defense attorney available, then you should contact The Martinez Law Firm today!