Olney Assault Lawyers

Attorneys for Assault or Domestic Violence Charges in Olney, MD

Assault charges can be based on brief interactions that only lasted a few seconds, but their consequences can last a lifetime. A heated exchange at a youth sports game, an argument at home that leads a neighbor to call 911, or a tense encounter with a police officer could all result in serious criminal charges. Maryland courts take charges of assault seriously, and even if a case may seem minor, a person may face years in prison, a criminal record, and other serious penalties.

The attorneys at the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder represent people in Olney who are facing assault accusations. We have spent years handling criminal cases in Maryland courts, and we understand how the law separates a threat from a physical attack and a misdemeanor from a felony. Our team uses our knowledge of the law, our investigation skills, and our ability to craft persuasive arguments to protect our clients' rights.

We will be accessible to clients throughout their cases as we focus on achieving the best possible results. We are always ready to answer questions or provide guidance on the concerns that people may encounter. We will thoroughly prepare clients for all court appearances, advising them on how to dress professionally, how to present a positive picture to a judge, and how to answer questions. Our goal is to take uncertainty out of the process and achieve solutions that will help clients put these situations behind them and move forward.

Three Ways an Assault Charge Can Arise

Assault covers several types of conduct, including:

• Threatening Behavior: A person can be charged with assault without touching anyone. If someone is accused of intentionally acting in a way that made another person fear that they were about to be hurt, this act may qualify as assault. Examples may include swinging a bat toward a person or charging at them with clenched fists. Threats paired with menacing actions often lead to assault accusations.
• Offensive Contact: Contact that is intentional and unwanted can be considered assault even if it did not cause an injury. Poking someone in the chest during an argument, knocking a phone out of a person's hand, or throwing a drink at someone are common examples of reasons for assault charges.
• Infliction of Bodily Harm: Many assault cases involve allegations that a person caused an injury, such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones. The seriousness of the injury can play a major role in determining whether a person may be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony.

First-Degree Versus Second-Degree Assault Charges

Many people accused of behaving threateningly, making offensive contact, or inflicting minor injuries may be charged with second-degree assault. This is a misdemeanor offense that may be punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine. When prosecutors allege that a person caused or tried to cause serious physical injury, or that they used a firearm, the charges may be increased to first-degree assault, also known as aggravated assault. In these cases, a person may face felony charges, and a conviction may lead to a sentence in prison lasting for up to 25 years.

Domestic Violence and Assault Charges

A large share of assault cases arise from conflicts between spouses, dating partners, parents and children, or other family and household members. In situations where a person has been accused of domestic violence, assault charges may apply, and the penalties may become more serious.

A domestic assault case may begin after a 911 call is made in the middle of an argument. When officers arrive, they may arrest someone based on visible injuries or marks indicating that physical violence occurred. One person's account of what happened may be enough for police to decide to arrest the other party. Accusations of domestic violence can sometimes occur during divorce or custody disputes.

Our team will examine the communications between the parties, statements from witnesses, and the history between the people involved to determine the best defense strategies to use. Our goal is to make sure the court sees the entire picture of what happened while advocating for solutions that will minimize a client's potential penalties.

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders

Along with criminal charges, a person who has been accused of domestic violence may face a protective order. Courts may issue these orders to prevent further abuse while a criminal case is ongoing or there are concerns about the possibility of future violence. A restraining order may require the accused person to stay away from the alleged victim, move out of their home, surrender any firearms they own, and follow temporary child custody arrangements.

Because violating a protective order can lead to an arrest and new criminal charges, it is important to follow the terms that have been put in place. Our attorneys can provide representation for clients during protective order hearings, working to limit the restrictions that they may face. We can provide guidance on how to avoid violations while addressing assault charges and other criminal matters.

Increased Penalties for Assaulting a Police Officer

Maryland law treats assaults on law enforcement more harshly than other forms of assault. If a person is accused of intentionally causing an injury to a law enforcement officer, assault charges may be increased from a misdemeanor to a felony. A conviction can lead to a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Similar penalties may apply in cases where people are accused of assaulting parole or probation agents, firefighters, or emergency medical workers.

Contact Our Olney, Maryland Assault Attorneys

Whether you have been accused of making threats, touching someone else in an offensive manner, or causing a serious injury, the attorneys at the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder can help you defend against charges of assault. We will look closely at the facts of your case to determine what defense strategies may be available. We will guide you through your criminal case and any related protective order proceedings while working to safeguard your future. Contact our Olney, MD assault charges defense lawyers at 301-762-7500 to arrange a free consultation.