Domestic Violence Lawyer Houston, TX
Trial-Tested Defense for the Most Serious Allegations
- Hundreds of domestic violence cases reduced or dismissed
- Featured in Forbes, Dateline, and the Houston Chronicle
- Small caseloads for focused, aggressive representation
- Free consultations and 24/7 direct attorney access
The Clock Is Already Ticking
on Your Defense

If you've been accused of or arrested for domestic violence in Texas, time is not on your side. Every hour that passes without a strategic legal response on your end increases the risk of life-altering consequences, some of which can become permanent even without a conviction.
Here's what already may be in motion, and what our domestic violence attorneys can help you fight, starting today:
- Protective orders may already be in place that restrict your contact with loved ones.
- Your bond conditions may be set, limiting your freedom of movement.
- Police reports are being reviewed, and prosecutors may start preparing charges within days of an arrest.
- Early choices you make, like giving a statement without a lawyer, can come back to haunt you.
- If you're not a U.S. citizen, a domestic violence charge can trigger deportation proceedings before the case is even decided.
A Former Prosecutor
and Relentless Defender
Make Your Call to Paul Doyle & Associates
Before becoming one of Houston’s most trusted criminal defense attorneys, Paul Doyle served as a Harris County prosecutor for seven years. In this time, he tried over 50 felony and misdemeanor cases and earned a 95% conviction rate.
Today, Mr. Doyle uses that same courtroom acumen to dismantle the strategies he once used. He knows how prosecutors think, where they cut corners, and how to expose weak evidence and incorrect assumptions. This dual insight is one of the key reasons why so many domestic violence charges handled by our Houston firm end in dismissals, not convictions.
If you want a defense lawyer who understands the system from the inside out, you won’t find anyone more qualified than Paul Doyle.

A 5-Star Review From a Satisfied Houston Client
"Paul and his team went above and beyond in their representation of me. I applaud Paul for his professionalism and integrity. He was able to see through the lies and politics, and made sure the D.A understood the truth in regards to my case. I urge all of you to call Paul before hiring an attorney. You will not be disappointed. To this day I can text Paul and get a response within an hour. Truly a man of high character."
— Kincaide, 5-Star Review
What Is Considered Domestic Violence?

In the state of Texas, any act by a household or family member that either threatens or results in physical harm, assault, or sexual assault can be considered domestic violence. In other words, this type of violence has a broad definition under Texas law. It can include:
- Assault on a family member
- Aggravated assault
- Child abuse
- Choking
- Kidnapping, restraining, or false imprisonment
- Sexual abuse or assault
- Terroristic threats
Don't Let a Domestic Violence Charge Ruin Your Life
Contact Our Law Office Today
Domestic violence lawyers Paul Doyle and Trevor Sharon are here to help you fight for your rights and reputation. The penalties of being charged with domestic violence are too severe to risk handling it alone. These penalties include jail time, steep fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal record.
When you are faced with domestic violence charges, your choice of attorney is crucial. Our attorneys have been practicing for over a decade and are equipped to handle all forms of domestic abuse cases. Contact our Houston, TX, law firm to schedule your free consultation.
(713) 228-9200
Houston, TX, Chooses Our Attorneys
"Paul Doyle & Associates are very professional and know how to get favorable results. Despite the obstacles, Paul Doyle worked arduously and diligently resulting in my case being dismissed. Special thanks to Paul, Trevor and Maria for your courtesy and professionalism. I highly recommend Paul Doyle & Associates if you find yourself in need of an awesome Criminal Defense Attorney. Thanks again!"
— Robby A., 5-Star Review
Choose a Team That Truly Listens Hear From Mr. Doyle and Mr. Sharon Themselves
If you've been charged with domestic violence or abuse, you're likely facing the fight of your life. Choose a team that understands what you're going through and isn't afraid to put in the hard work to protect your freedoms. Our domestic violence attorneys based in Houston strive to make elite criminal defense services available to anyone who needs them. They are prepared to take your case.
Don't put your freedom in the hands of an overworked public defender who likely won't have time to get to know you and the truth of your situation. Mr. Doyle and Mr. Sharon purposefully limit their caseloads so each client receives the full attention their cases require for a successful outcome. You can speak with our attorneys for free during a private consultation. Book yours by contacting us online or calling our Houston, TX, law office at:
(713) 228-9200
Our attorneys are recognized for their determination and success with criminal defense cases. Mr. Sharon was honored as a Rising Star in Criminal Law by Thomson Reuters Super Lawyers four years in a row. Mr. Doyle has earned numerous media accolades, including a feature on Texas Leaders in Law published by Forbes Magazine. Our domestic violence lawyers are ready to put our decades of experience to use on your behalf.
Protective Orders in Texas: Know What You’re Really Up Against
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence in Texas, it’s very likely a judge has already issued a protective order against you, sometimes before you’ve had the chance to defend yourself. These orders carry immediate legal consequences and can impact your freedom, your home life, and even your custody rights.
There are three types of protective orders in Texas:
- Magistrate's Order for Emergency Protection (MOEP): This type of order is issued after an arrest for family violence, sexual assault, stalking, or similar charges.
- Can be ordered without a formal request
- Typically lasts 31 to 91 days
- Violation can result in additional criminal charges and bond revocation
2. Temporary Ex Parte Protective Order: This type of order is issued when a judge finds there is a clear and present danger. No hearing is required.
- May order the respondent to leave their home (a “kick-out” order)
- Lasts up to 20 days, but can be extended
- Often issued at the start of a divorce or custody dispute
3. Final Protective Order: This type of order can be issued after a full hearing or if a temporary order is violated.
- Lasts up to two years, sometimes longer
- Can severely restrict your ability to see your children, return to your home, or possess a firearm
Accused of Violating a Protective Order? Call a Defense Lawyer Today
Violating a protective order doesn’t require violence. In fact, many of our clients are accused of violations based on alleged indirect contact or misunderstood interactions. Texas law treats these accusations seriously, even when they’re false, exaggerated, or accidental. Our attorneys have successfully defended clients accused of MOEP violations, unlawful communication with alleged victims, and more. Position yourself for the best outcome with Paul Doyle & Associates:
Frequently Asked Questions For Our Domestic Violence Lawyers in Houston
Will my domestic violence charges be dropped if my significant other wants to drop the charge?
No. A confusing aspect of the criminal justice system is that it is not up to the victim to drop the charge. This decision is made by the district attorney's office. Even if the victim asks the district attorney to drop the charge or recants, the district attorney will likely pursue the charges anyway.What happens if I am not a U.S. citizen?
A person charged with domestic violence who is not a United States citizen can face serious penalties. Federal law requires deportation even if the case ends in probation or deferred adjudication. Re-entry into the U.S. will probably be denied after arrest, even if the case has not gone to trial.
What does it mean to have a family violence finding?
A plea of either guilty or no contest will result in a family violence finding. Even if the sentence is deferred, the finding of family violence can have dire consequences for a parent facing a child custody or modification case. There probably will be a presumption that the accused is not a fit parent. Further, a second family violence conviction is treated as a felony rather than a misdemeanor.
“Paul Doyle is one of the best trial lawyers in Texas. Not only was he successful dealing with my situation he has consistently produced fantastic results to those that I have referred to him.”
— Mike, 5-Star Review