Assault charges are very serious, and in many cases, they can warrant jail time and high fines upon conviction. Oftentimes, people are unfairly charged with assault simply because they were defending themselves in an altercation that they did not instigate. No matter your circumstances, if you are facing assault charges in Maryland, you must continue reading and speak with our Maryland criminal defense attorney today to learn more about how our firm can help. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the penalties for second-degree assault charges in Maryland?
If you are currently facing second-degree assault charges, it means that you allegedly attempted to intentionally cause bodily injury or fear to another person, or acted recklessly in causing an unlawful contact. Keep in mind that you do not have to physically strike a person to be charged with assault; in certain cases, as long as the individual can prove that you instilled a fear of bodily injury or otherwise threatened to attack them, you may be convicted of second-degree assault. Upon conviction, you can receive a fine of up to $2,500, as well as up to ten years of incarceration.
What happens if I am convicted of first-degree assault in Maryland?
First-degree assault charges are much more severe than second-degree assault charges, as they may involve the use of a deadly or other weapon while committing the assault or and intent to maim. When someone is charged with first-degree assault, he or she is facing up to 25 years of incarceration.
What are some potential defenses against assault charges?
The defense strategy that our firm will pursue on your behalf will depend on the specifics of your circumstances and the alleged assault. However, perhaps the most common defense against assault charges is self-defense. This means that we will have to prove you were either protecting yourself from a threatening force (without threat or provocation on your part), that you were using reasonable force to defend your person or property from a perceived threat, or that you were acting in defense of others (e.g. you saw someone being wrongfully assaulted and you stepped in to assist that individual). That being said, the bottom line is that if you are currently facing assault charges, the most important thing you can do is speak with a knowledgeable Maryland criminal defense attorney as soon as you can. We are ready to analyze your case and put forth the best defense possible on your behalf.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Anne Arundel County and Howard County, Maryland who need legal assistance for criminal defense or personal injury matters. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
