Defend Your Freedom with a Proven San Antonio Criminal Lawyer
Facing a terrorist threat accusation can turn your life upside down. In Texas, even a single statement — whether shouted in anger, posted online, or taken out of context — can lead to serious criminal charges. Law enforcement and prosecutors consider any mention, particularly if related to a terroristic threat, with extreme caution, often filing charges before all the facts are clear.
At Castro Criminal Lawyer, we understand that being accused of making a terroristic threat does not mean you are guilty. Many of these cases arise from misunderstandings, false reports, or overreactions. Our legal team fights to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Understanding Terroristic Threat Under Texas Law
The Texas Penal Code §22.07 defines a terroristic threat as threatening to commit an act of violence against a person or property with intent to cause certain results — even if the threat is never carried out.
To convict someone, prosecutors must prove intent — that you meant to cause fear, disruption, or harm. But intent is often subjective, and what one person views as a “threat,” another may see as a joke, expression of frustration, or emotional outburst.
According to the statute, a person commits a terrorist threat if they threaten violence with the intent to:
-
Cause a reaction from emergency responders or law enforcement;
-
Place any person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury;
-
Prevent or interrupt the use of a building, public place, or transportation;
-
Disrupt public utilities, communications, or transportation systems;
-
Cause impairment or interruption of public services; or
-
Influence the conduct or actions of a government agency.
In other words, you don’t need to use a weapon, act violently, or even have the ability to carry out the threat. The perception of a threat can be enough for charges — and that’s what makes these cases so dangerous.
Examples of Terroristic Threat Cases in Texas
Many people are shocked to learn how easily a simple statement can be twisted into a terroristic threat. Some common real-world examples include:
-
A teenager posts a meme or joke about violence on social media, and a classmate reports it to the school or police.
-
Someone yells in anger during a road rage incident, saying something like “I’ll kill you,” and the other driver calls 911.
-
A frustrated employee threatens to “blow up” a situation figuratively, but coworkers interpret it literally.
-
A domestic argument leads to one partner claiming they felt threatened, even if no harm was intended.
These cases often involve no actual danger, but the emotional reaction of others can result in serious charges. That’s why having an experienced San Antonio criminal lawyer on your side is critical from the very beginning.
Penalties for a Terroristic Threat in Texas
The penalties for a terrorist threat depend on the nature of the threat and who it was directed toward. Under Texas law:
-
Class B Misdemeanor:
Threatening another person with intent to cause fear of serious bodily injury. Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. -
Class A Misdemeanor:
If the threat is made against a family member, public servant, or results in the evacuation of a building, the charge can be enhanced. Punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $4,000 fine. -
State Jail Felony:
If the threat causes an interruption of public utilities, transportation, or communications systems, penalties increase to up to 2 years in a state jail and a $10,000 fine. -
Third-Degree Felony:
If the threat causes fear or disruption at a public place such as a school, church, or government building, or is intended to influence government action, penalties rise to 2–10 years in prison.
Even a misdemeanor conviction leaves a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and firearm ownership. Employers and background checks often treat “terrorist threat” charges as violent crimes — even when no one was actually harmed.
Defenses Against Terroristic Threat Charges
A skilled San Antonio criminal lawyer knows that the key to defending these cases is showing the lack of intent to threaten or cause fear. Every case is different, but common defense strategies may include:
-
No Intent to Threaten:
The alleged statement was a joke, exaggeration, or emotional outburst — not a real threat. -
No Imminent Danger:
The alleged victim was not actually placed in fear of immediate serious injury. -
Free Speech Protection:
Some statements, even offensive or angry ones, are protected under the First Amendment and cannot form the basis of a criminal charge. -
False Accusation or Misunderstanding:
Witnesses may have exaggerated or misunderstood what was said. -
Lack of Evidence:
Prosecutors often rely on unreliable social media posts, text messages, or verbal reports. Without clear proof of intent, the case may not hold up.
At Castro Criminal Lawyer, we analyze every piece of evidence — from text messages and call logs to police reports and witness statements — to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and push for dismissal or reduction of charges.
How Castro Criminal Lawyer Can Help
When you’re accused of a terrorist threat, you need more than a lawyer — you need a fighter. Attorney Christopher Castro brings years of courtroom experience and an aggressive, strategic approach to criminal defense.
Our firm focuses on personalized representation. We take the time to understand your situation, your background, and the full story behind the allegation. Then we build a tailored defense designed to:
-
Challenge probable cause and police procedures;
-
Negotiate with prosecutors for dismissals, reductions, or deferred adjudication;
-
Protect your rights in pretrial hearings and trial;
-
Keep your record clean through expunction or nondisclosure when possible.
As a trusted San Antonio criminal lawyer, Mr. Castro knows the local courts, judges, and prosecutors — and how to use that insight to your advantage.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
If you’ve been arrested or even questioned about a terroristic threat, time is critical. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of controlling the narrative and preventing charges from being filed.
Do not talk to police investigators without your lawyer present. What you say can be taken out of context and used against you later. Instead, contact Castro Criminal Lawyer immediately to get the protection you need.
We’re available to discuss your case confidentially and provide honest guidance about your options.
Contact a San Antonio Criminal Lawyer Today
At Castro Criminal Lawyer, we believe one mistake or misunderstanding should not define your future. Whether you’re accused of making a terrorist threat online, during a domestic dispute, or in public, we’re ready to stand by your side and fight back.
Call us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule a confidential consultation. Let an experienced San Antonio criminal lawyer help you take control of your defense and protect your future.