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Can I file charges for a threat of physical violence even though there was no physical contact?
Anonymous3 views2 answers
At a family party a family member threatened to beat me up for no apparent reason at all except that he doesn't like me. I hated feeling victimized and bullied and the only reason I was not harmed is because another family member stepped in his path and stopped him from committing the act. I would like to know can I file charges against this person because this may happen again due to our proximity to each other and other circumstances beyond my control.
Paul Holt WalcuttCriminal Defense AttorneyAustin, TX ·
In the State of Texas, a person commits the offense of Terroristic Threat if that person "threatens to commit any offense involving violence to any person or property with intent to ... place any person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury." (TX Penal Code 22.07). You can call either 311 or 911 to make this criminal complaint and protect yourself.
Depending on the circumstances, you may also be able to get a protective order issued against this person if there is a likelihood that he might commit family violence against you. The local County or District attorney's office can help you with this process.
Disclaimer: This answer is provided as a public service and as a general response to a general question, it is not meant, and should not be relied upon as specific legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship.