Ellicott City Assault Lawyer
With experienced legal representation, you can expect your defense attorneys to fight on your behalf and seek justice for you. If you have been charged with an assault in Ellicott City, an Ellicott City assault lawyer can help with your case.
Are Assault Charges Serious in Ellicott City?
Assault offenses may seem like common crimes, but they are very serious nonetheless. First degree assault can carry penalties of a felony conviction and up to 25 years in prison. Section 3-202(b). Assault in the second degree is a misdemeanor, but unfortunately Maryland misdemeanors can carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison (as opposed to most other jurisdictions, where misdemeanors have a maximum penalty of one year in jail). Accordingly, second degree assault carries penalties of up to 10 years in prison and/or fine of up to $5,000. Section 3-203(b). Furthermore, being convicted of assault can have a negative impact on many areas of your life, from employment, school applications, to mortgage applications.
Ellicott City Assault Lawyers Handle These Cases
Assault can be charged in two degrees in Maryland: first degree and second degree. The criteria for first degree assault is that the assault causes “serious bodily injury”, usually meaning an injury that permanently impairs someone or causes a significant risk of death. It also includes assault with a handgun. First degree assault carries with it a penalty of 25 years in prison. The criteria for second degree assault in a physical injury to someone, but the injury is not a “serious physical injury”. A typical example would be punching someone in a bar fight.
Second degree assault carries with it up to 10 years in prison. First degree assault is a felony, while second degree assault is charged as a misdemeanor. An attorney can handle your case by looking at the facts, doing the relevant research necessary to craft a defense, and presenting that defense in court on your behalf. Our attorneys are bright, experienced, and willing to help you in any way possible.
Assault Attorneys Can Fight For You In Court
Our experienced Ellicott City assault lawyers recognize the disastrous personal and legal consequences that can result from an assault conviction. That is why they are so committed to helping their clients. Our team understands the local customs and nuances of the local Howard County courts and this familiarity can aide your case. Our attorneys are aggressive, relentless, and dedicated when it comes to the cases they take on and can work with you to obtain an optimal outcome.
Finding an Assault Lawyer in Ellicott City
Criminal defense attorneys can make a huge difference in your case by using a full arsenal of defense strategies. Your lawyer can work to show that instead of intending to harm someone, you were acting in self-defense. Your attorney can also work to lessen your charges (from first degree assault to second degree assault) where possible. Your attorney may even be able to help get your charges dismissed or ask for a deferred sentence. Regardless of the strategy used, an assault lawyer in Ellicott City can work hard for you and do everything possible to help with your case.
No two cases of assault are ever going to be exactly the same, and there are a number of factors that will make your specific case unique. The facts surrounding your case, and even your prior criminal history will all play a role in what charge the state elects to file, and the penalties that they will pursue for a conviction. While your case will be unique, and present its own individual set of challenges, an Ellicott City assault lawyer may have experience handling cases with similar charges and facts, and he can draw on that experience to prepare you for what lies ahead.
Don’t let any aspect of the investigation or the subsequent trial catch you off guard—consult with a criminal attorney to discuss your situation and your options. An assault lawyer can work with you to figure out a plan that serves your interests moving forward, while also being flexible in adjusting that strategy should anything jeopardize your path towards a positive result.
An Ellicott City assault lawyer also has experience in the local Ellicott City courts. During your trial you want to be as comfortable as possible, considering the situation. Our attorneys’ experience in Maryland criminal law can bring clients the peace of mind that comes with working with a tested legal advocate.