DC Assault Lawyer

In DC, assault can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, as simple assault or aggravated assault, depending on the circumstances of the incident leading to arrest. Generally speaking, one thinks of assault charges as the result of a physical altercation, but in fact, assault charges can come even from the threat of violence when no physical contact actually occurred. If convicted of assault in DC, one faces not only fines, jail, and probation but is plagued by a criminal record.

If you have been accused of assault, you need the help of a qualified DC assault lawyer to defend against your criminal charge. Assault charges often come as a result of conflicting testimony about who was the instigator and who was acting in self-defense. A seasoned defense attorney can help you tell your side of the story.

Types of Assault Charges

Assault charges in DC vary in severity from misdemeanor simple assault to felony aggravated assault. Each of these assault charges carries the potential for heavy fines and significant jail time, and all invoke a criminal record for a violent crime. Therefore, it is essential for a defendant to obtain a DC assault attorney. The different types of assault charges include:

Simple Assault – In DC, simple assault is a misdemeanor offense resulting from an assault or threat of assault that results in minimal injury to the alleged victim. It is important to note that one may be charged with simple assault in DC by the mere threat of violence with the apparent means to actually carry out the threat. Contact need not actually occur to warrant a simple assault charge. Simple assault in DC is punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to 180 days in jail.
Assault with Significant Injury – Assault with significant injury is a more serious offense than simple assault, leading to a sentence of up to $12,500 in fines and three years behind bars. A person may be charged with assault with significant injury in DC if their actions injured a victim severely enough to warrant hospitalization or to necessitate immediate medical attention. Furthermore, if a person knew his actions were likely to result in serious injury to the victim, they may be charged with assault with a significant injury.
Aggravated Assault – Aggravated assault is considered the most serious assault offense in the District. Aggravated assault is a felony charge resulting from an altercation that inflicts serious injury with the loss of consciousness, prolonged or permanent disfigurement, extreme pain, or risk of death. Aggravated assault in DC is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine, but even the attempt alone carries significant penalties—up to five years in prison and a $12,500 fine, making it important that an assault lawyer in DC is consulted immediately.
Assault On an Officer
Civil Protection Orders
Investigations
Arrest Expectations
Alternative Sentencing

Assault Defense Strategies

When facing assault charges in Washington, DC, employing effective defense strategies is crucial. Common tactics used to challenge these charges include self-defense, where the accused argues that their actions were necessary to protect themselves from imminent harm. Another strategy is proving lack of intent, demonstrating that the accused did not intend to cause injury or fear.

Mistaken identity can also be a strong defense, particularly if there is insufficient evidence linking the accused to the crime. Defense lawyers may challenge the credibility of witnesses or the legality of the arrest, questioning whether the accused’s rights were violated during the investigation.

Understanding these strategies can significantly impact the outcome of an assault case. Effective legal representation is essential to navigate these defenses and ensure the best possible outcome.

Enlist the Help of a DC Assault Attorney

A DC assault lawyer can carefully evaluate your case and your charge to craft the best possible defense. Whether bringing about reduced charges, getting the charges against you dropped and the case dismissed, or defending you at trial to bring an acquittal, a seasoned attorney can tailor the defense to your unique case, bringing about the best possible result. You should consult an experienced legal professional and begin protecting yourself today.