Seattle Assault Lawyer
Defending Against Assault Charges in Washington
If you have been accused of assault, you need to secure serious legal representation from me, a Seattle assault lawyer, who can match the seriousness of your charge. Individuals convicted of assault may be penalized with fines, a criminal record, and jail time.
Assault doesn't necessarily have to involve a weapon or actual physical harm to lead to charges. The mere act of threatening or making someone believe that physical harm is imminent is also considered to be a form of assault. Most of these incidents occur when individuals are in a provoked state. Unfortunately, even the smallest lapse in judgment can cost you everything.
Contact our Seattle assault defense lawyer online or call (206) 895-6800 for your free consultation today.
How to Defend Against Assault Charges
Whether you are charged with assault in the first degree or the fourth degree, I am here to help you get through this difficult and overwhelming experience. After carefully reviewing all the details of your arrest, I may be able to prove that your actions were out of self-defense or in defense of someone else. The chances of walking away with a favorable result greatly increase when you hire an experienced law firm such as mine. If convicted, your criminal record could inhibit your ability to find work. Don't let this happen to you.
Can I Go to Jail For 4th Degree Assault?
In Washington state, fourth-degree assault is the lowest level of assault, also known as gross misdemeanor assault. Assault in the fourth degree is a gross misdemeanor described by law as “the mere unwanted, intentional touching of one person by another.” For example, it can be a pinch, a push, a slap, or anything that may be considered a simple touch, even if there are no visible signs of bruising or marks. It is enough for someone to allege that they were assaulted or “touched” in a way they didn’t wish to be touched. A conviction for fourth-degree assault can be punished by a $5,000 fine and up to 364 days in jail.
What are the Penalties for Assault in Washington?
The amount of jail time that you can be sentenced to depends on the degree of assault you are charged with. If found guilty at trial or a plea of guilty of fourth-degree assault, a gross misdemeanor, you may be sentenced up to a maximum of 364 days in jail and a maximum $5,000.00 fine.
More serious assaults, such as felonies in the 1st degree, 2nd degree, and 3rd degree, even without aggravating factors, could lead to significantly more time in custody. A number of determining factors are used to assess the possible time of incarceration if found guilty at trial or pleading guilty to a resolution in a felony case.
Understanding Assault Charges in Washington
Assault charges in Washington can range from simple assaults to more serious charges like aggravated assault. It's important to understand the different types of assault charges and the potential penalties associated with each. Our Seattle assault lawyer has extensive experience defending clients against a wide range of assault charges and can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need.
Common types of assault charges in Washington include:
- Simple assault
- Assault in the fourth degree
- Assault in the third degree
- Assault in the second degree
- Assault in the first degree
Penalties for assault charges can vary depending on the severity of the offense and other factors. It's important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible if you are facing assault charges in Washington.
Our Seattle assault attorney is dedicated to protecting your rights and providing a strong defense against assault charges. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
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