Silver Spring Assault Defense Lawyer

Attorney for Assault Charges in Silver Spring, MD

There are many situations where people may face criminal charges when they never intended to do anything that was against the law. These cases will often involve charges of assault, which may involve accusations of intentionally harming someone or acting in a threatening manner. An argument at a bar, with a neighbor, or in another situation may escalate to a fight or another situation where someone believed they would be injured. When the police are called in these situations, they may arrest someone for assault.

Determining how to defend against assault charges is not always easy, but it is important to take the right steps when doing so, because the consequences a person may face can affect multiple parts of their life. Legal representation from a criminal defense lawyer can be essential in these cases. At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, our attorney can provide the personal attention needed in cases involving accusations of assault. He will explain every step of the criminal process clearly, prepare a person for what will happen during their case, and fight for the most favorable outcome possible.

Second-Degree Assault

Charges of simple assault or second-degree assault may be based on accusations of intentional, unwanted physical contact with another person, such as striking or slapping someone, pushing them, or making any other form of contact. A person could even be charged with a crime if they did not make any contact, but they allegedly behaved in a way that caused someone to believe that they would suffer harm, such as by making threats or pulling back a fist to throw a punch.

Second-degree assault is a misdemeanor in Maryland, but it can result in serious penalties for those who are convicted. The maximum sentence in these cases is 10 years in prison, and/or a fine of $2,500.

First-Degree Assault

Charges of aggravated assault or first-degree assault are more serious, since they are classified as felonies. In general, a person may face charges of first-degree assault if they allegedly caused someone to suffer a serious physical injury or attempted to do so. Certain aggravating factors, such as the use of a firearm or an alleged attempt to strangle a victim, may also lead to the escalation of charges from second-degree assault to first-degree assault. A person convicted of first-degree assault could be sentenced to a maximum of 25 years in prison.

Defense Strategies in Assault Cases

Our attorney will work with clients to build defense strategies that are based on the specific facts of a situation that led to charges of assault. Some of these strategies may include:

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

A person is legally allowed to use a reasonable amount of force to protect themselves from harm. In general, a person may argue that they acted in self-defense if they did not initiate a confrontation, if they did not take actions to escalate the situation, and if they believed their actions were necessary to prevent themselves from suffering immediate harm. The same considerations may apply if a person allegedly acted to defend someone else against being injured or harmed.

Our attorney will take steps to determine whether a client can show that they acted in self-defense or to defend others. He will review the evidence related to any injuries that occurred, statements from witnesses, or other evidence, such as security camera footage that captured an incident. Demonstrating that a client acted lawfully can serve as a defense against an assault conviction.

Challenging the Credibility of Witnesses

Many assault charges are based on accusations made by an alleged victim or bystanders who witnessed what happened. Our lawyer will closely review statements made by witnesses, looking for inconsistencies and determining whether there may be any reason for a person to make false accusations. Showing that a person's statements were unreliable may be a way to challenge charges of assault.

Disputing the Identification of the Accused

In some situations, the identification of a person who allegedly committed assault may not be unreliable. Issues such as large crowds, poor lighting, or chaotic situations may have prevented eyewitnesses from being able to accurately identify a suspect. Our attorney may be able to challenge the identification of a client or provide an alibi showing that they were not present when the alleged assault took place.

Contesting the Severity of a Victim's Injuries

If a person is facing charges of first-degree assault, our lawyer may take steps to show that the injuries suffered by an alleged victim should not be considered "serious bodily harm." He can review medical evidence and other factors to challenge the basis of first-degree assault charges and determine whether charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Lack of Intent

A person may be convicted of assault if a prosecutor can show that they acted intentionally to harm someone else or cause them to fear that they would be injured. Our attorney will look at whether the actions a person took were deliberate. He may take steps to show that a person's actions were misinterpreted, that they did not intend to commit assault, or that a situation was based on a misunderstanding, and he will argue to have charges dismissed whenever possible.

Help Defending Against Charges of Assault

Responding to an assault charge can be stressful, and the criminal justice process can feel overwhelming for many people. At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, we work hard to make the experience as clear and manageable as possible for every client we serve. Our lawyer will explain what the charges mean, what the prosecution must prove, the possible outcomes of a case, and the steps that can be taken to achieve positive results.

Consistent Communication

Our team will keep clients informed throughout the entire legal process. We will not leave our client wondering about the status of their case or what will happen next. Clients can reach us with questions at any time, and we will provide clear responses and make sure they understand their options.

Thorough Preparation for Court

Our attorney appears with clients whenever they need to go to court, making sure they will be fully prepared. He will walk clients through what to expect in the courtroom, how to conduct themselves, what the judge and prosecutor may say, and how to dress and act professionally and respectfully. From your first phone call through the resolution of your case, our lawyer will be personally involved in what happens, standing by your side and guiding you toward a positive outcome.

Contact Our Silver Spring, Maryland Assault Defense Attorney

Legal representation is crucial to ensure that you will be able to avoid a conviction for assault and put these charges behind you. The attorney at the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder is ready to fight for you and develop an effective defense strategy. Contact our Silver Spring assault lawyer today at 301-762-7500 to arrange your free consultation.