juvenile threats & assault information center
Understanding the Law, Defending Your Child’s Future
What is Considered a Threat?
What is a Threat?
Common Threat & Assault Cases
Common Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started with Your Defense
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Juvenile Defense Lawyer for Threats & Assault Charges
In today’s digital world, words and actions can have serious legal consequences. A joke, impulsive comment, or heated argument—whether through a text message, a social media post, or a voice chat in a video game—can lead to criminal charges for threats or assault. Schools, law enforcement, and prosecutors take these cases seriously, and juveniles can face severe penalties, including criminal records, expulsion, and detention.
If your child has been accused of making a threat or assault, it’s important to act quickly. Katy Boortz is an experienced juvenile defense attorney who knows how to challenge assumptions, protect your child’s rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.
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What Is Considered a Threat Under Texas Law?
A threat doesn’t have to involve physical violence to be considered a crime. Under Texas law, a person may face charges for making a threat if it:
- Causes fear of serious harm to another person.
- Is intended to disrupt a school or public place.
- Targets an individual or institution (e.g., a school, teacher, student, or group).
Even if the person making the threat had no intention of following through, prosecutors can still pursue charges, especially if the threat is made in a school setting or over digital platforms.
How law enforcement and prosecutors handle these cases can make a huge difference in whether charges are filed. Police officers responding to a report of a threat often take immediate action, sometimes making an arrest before fully investigating the intent behind the statement. Prosecutors then review the case and decide whether to formally charge the juvenile. If they believe the threat was credible or disruptive, they may push for harsh penalties. However, with the right legal defense, it’s possible to demonstrate that a statement was taken out of context, misunderstood, or exaggerated, which can lead to reduced charges or even case dismissal.
This is why having an attorney early in the process is so important. A strong legal defense can influence how prosecutors interpret the situation and advocate for a fair outcome that protects your child’s future.
Common Types of Juvenile Threat and Assault Cases
1. Threats Made Through Text, Social Media, and Video Games
- Text messages or group chats that include violent or threatening language.
- Social media posts (Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat) that reference violence, even as a joke.
- Comments made on YouTube, Twitch, or Discord that are interpreted as threats.
- Threats or harassment sent through Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, or other gaming platforms.
Even if a threat wasn’t serious, law enforcement and school officials may not see it that way. These cases often lead to terroristic threat or false alarm charges, which carry severe penalties.
2. Assault and Physical Altercations
- Fights between students at school or off-campus.
- Altercations that result in injuries, even minor ones.
- Incidents involving self-defense claims.
- Situations where social media or text messages escalate into real-world violence.
Depending on the severity of the incident, juveniles can face charges ranging from misdemeanor assault to felony aggravated assault, with consequences that may include probation, detention, or a criminal record.
3. Verbal Assault and Harassment
- Threatening language used in person, over the phone, or in an argument.
- Bullying or repeated verbal attacks that cause emotional distress.
- Statements that are interpreted as threats, even if made in anger or frustration.
Verbal altercations can escalate quickly, and what may seem like an argument can result in legal action if the other party feels genuinely threatened. In some cases, juveniles may face harassment or assault by threat charges, even if no physical violence occurred.
Common Questions about Threats and Assault
Q: What if my child was just joking and never meant to harm anyone?
A: Many juveniles don’t realize that making a “joke” about violence—even in a text or online—can lead to criminal charges. Schools and law enforcement take threats seriously, regardless of intent. An attorney can help clarify the context and fight for a fair outcome.
Q: Can my child get in trouble for something they said in a video game?
A: Yes. Threats made over gaming platforms (Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, Discord) are increasingly leading to real-world consequences. If another player reports a message as a threat, it could result in law enforcement involvement.
Q: What are the penalties for making a threat or assaulting someone at school?
A: Penalties vary, but they may include suspension, expulsion, probation, detention, or even felony charges in extreme cases. Schools also report many of these incidents to law enforcement, leading to potential criminal records.
Q: Can a lawyer get my child’s charges reduced or dismissed?
A: In many cases, yes. An experienced juvenile defense attorney can challenge the evidence, question intent, and negotiate for alternative resolutions, such as counseling or diversion programs.
Getting Started With Your Defense
How Katy Boortz Can Help
If your child is facing charges for making a threat or assault, don’t assume the outcome is set in stone. Prosecutors push for harsh penalties, but there are often ways to reduce charges, challenge evidence, or explore alternative sentencing options.
Katy Boortz has extensive experience in juvenile defense and understands the nuances of these cases. She fights to protect her clients from unnecessary criminal records, school expulsions, and long-term consequences.
Call today for a free consultation and start building a strong defense for your child.
