Salisbury Assault Lawyers
Defense Against Assault Charges in Ocean City, Berlin, and Surrounding Communities
If you are facing charges for assault, it is critical that you make sure the next step you take protects your legal rights and any defenses you may have. Assault charges can result from a simple argument, a bar fight or an extremely violent altercation. At the MacDonald Law Office, LLC, our priority is to defend you against these charges and the consequences that can result from every type of assault charge you may be facing, from simple battery to felony assault involving violent crimes such as sexual assault. With 20 years and former prosecutor experience on our side, we will work to defend against the criminal charges you may be facing!
Please do not hesitate to contact either of our offices in Salisbury or Ocean City online or call (410) 348-7809 today and schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation.
What Are the Penalties for Assault?
A misdemeanor assault charge should not be taken lightly. Unlike other states, in Maryland even a misdemeanor assault charge can result in up to 10 years in prison. Additionally, first-degree assault, which is a felony, carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison. However, the prosecution must prove that a firearm was used during the commission of the crime or that you intended to cause serious bodily injury.
Fair Representation for Assault Charges
We recognize that there are two sides to every assault case, and we want to make sure that your side is represented fairly. If drugs or alcohol were involved, these might be mitigating factors that should be presented as part of the case. Often, we can explore invoking a self-defense justification argument if your actions were in response to being attacked. We may also use this argument if you did not raise the level of force. If you were the actual victim, we may suggest that you file an assault charge against the other party.
Preparing Your Assault Defense
Part of our preparation is to help you preserve evidence that is relevant to your case, including:
- Photographing any injuries you may have sustained
- Saving torn and blood-spattered clothing
- Obtaining records of doctor or hospital treatment
- Filing a complaint with law enforcement
- Gathering the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who can corroborate your side of the story
- Searching for video surveillance at the location of the assault that can be used at trial
- Subpoenaing any phone call or text message records before, during, or after the assault took place showing that the other party was the aggressor or a voluntary participant
Understanding the Different Types of Assault Charges
Assault charges can encompass a wide range of behaviors and actions, each with its own set of legal implications. It's important to understand the different types of assault charges and how they can impact your case. Some common types of assault charges include:
- Simple Assault: Involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause harm to another person.
- Aggravated Assault: Involves causing serious bodily injury to another person, often with a deadly weapon.
- Domestic Assault: Involves assault against a family or household member, and can result in additional legal consequences.
- Sexual Assault: Involves non-consensual sexual contact or behavior, and carries severe legal penalties.
Understanding the specific type of assault charge you are facing is crucial in building a strong defense. Our experienced legal team can help you navigate the complexities of assault charges and provide you with the representation you need to protect your rights.
Charges for Protective Order Violations
If your assault charge is accompanied by a peace order or protective order, we can also represent you in this matter. If this is granted against you and you ever violate or are accused of violating the terms, you can be charged with a crime and go to jail. We can help you avoid unwarranted orders if possible by appearing on your behalf at the hearing where evidence is presented. We will refute the allegations and present evidence to disprove the violation. You can also testify on your own behalf.
Our Salisbury Assault Lawyers Can Help
Assault charges in Maryland can range from misdemeanor assault to felony assault, depending on the severity of the offense and any aggravating factors. It is important to understand the potential penalties and consequences associated with assault charges in order to make informed decisions about your defense strategy.
Our experienced team at MacDonald Law Office, LLC is well-versed in Maryland assault laws and can provide you with fair and aggressive representation to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Whether you are facing assault charges for the first time or have been accused of violating a protective order, we are here to help you navigate the legal process and build a strong defense. today to schedule a consultation and begin building your assault defense.
Begin Building Your Assault Defense Today
If you have been accused of any type of assault, it is crucial that you have a competent and skilled Salisbury assault defense attorney prepared to negotiate aggressively with the prosecutor and take your case to trial when necessary.
Discuss the details of your case with MacDonald Law Office, LLC in a FREE consultation now.
