Maryland Assault Defense Attorney

Being charged with assault can be a serious matter. That’s especially true if the charges brought against you are felonious in nature. Enlisting the services of an experienced assault defense attorney in Maryland is an essential element of ensuring that you receive the justice you deserve under your right to due process. Keep reading to learn more about what you should expect moving forward and what steps you can follow to achieve a successful outcome to your case.

What Constitutes Assault?

This is one of the most misunderstood legal terms in existence. Many people think that an assault occurs when an individual strikes another person with intent to harm. In reality, batteries are acts that involve physical contact with intent to harm, while assaults may be the same, or simply an act which causes another person reasonable fear that they may be harmed. Therefore, assaults may occur in a number of situations, such as:

• Brandishing a weapon, or something that someone else reasonably perceives to be a weapon, while making a threatening remark
• Throwing a punch at someone, whether that attack actually connects or not

Both of these cases have two things in common. First, the act was intended to cause apprehension of harmful contact. Secondly, the act in question did indeed cause apprehension of harmful contact. It’s important to note that the standard of apprehension of harmful contact is not exactly a scientific term, and is therefore open to interpretation by juries and judges. But, at its core, it means that a reasonable person in that scenario would believe that they would be subject to a harmful act based on an instigator’s actions.

What to Do if You’ve Been Charged

Facing assault charges can lead to serious consequences. If the assault charges are felonious, then those convicted could face:

• Jail time in excess of one year
• Loss of the right to vote
• Limited employment and housing opportunities
• Social stigma

Each one of these consequences, tangible and intangible, could be devastating. That’s why it’s important to employ the services of a dedicated, experienced attorney to ensure that you secure the justice you deserve in the legal system. Leaving your rights to chance simply won’t cut it.

In addition to criminal charges, it’s also important to note, that those charged with assault may also face a civil suit meant to award monetary compensation to the alleged victim. However, civil cases usually occur after criminal cases have run their course. So, if you have been charged, keep your attention focused on the criminal case at hand first.

Finding the Right Lawyer

Maybe you were simply defending yourself, but ended up getting charged with assault. Maybe there was just one huge misunderstanding which led to your charges being filed. Whatever the case, choosing the right lawyer to defend you in an assault criminal case is one of the most important decisions you can make in life. When it comes to jail time, monetary compensation, and your reputation, the stakes are too high to leave your rights to chance. Reach out to the dedicated and aggressive Glen Burnie and Columbia legal team at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA today to learn more.

Resource:

law.cornell.edu/wex/battery