Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyer
Assault Charges in Maryland
Most states consider assault and battery two separate offenses, but Maryland laws lump them together into one assault category. Furthermore, Maryland divides assault into several subcategories subject to varying sentencing levels. Although all assault charges are serious, they can result in a wide range of punishments depending upon how you are charged.
LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton was formed in 1980 in Baltimore to effectively help clients in our hometowns through challenging legal processes. We zealously protect your rights if you are charged with a violent crime. We provide a 24-hour hotline so we can take prompt action toward your defense, because arrests don’t just happen during business hours.
First-Degree Assault
First-degree assault is the highest level of assault charge in Maryland. In order to convict you, the prosecution must prove that you intentionally:
- Caused serious injury to another person
- Attempted to seriously injure another person
- Committed assault with a firearm
Assault in the first degree is a felony punishable by up to 25 years of imprisonment.
Second-Degree Assault
If the victim sustains minor injuries, you may be charged with second-degree assault, commonly referred to as simple assault. Second-degree assault is typically a misdemeanor charge, subject to as much as 10 years’ incarceration. However, assault on a law enforcement officer is considered a felony.
Reckless Endangerment
Also classified as assault, reckless endangerment refers to conduct or inaction that puts others at risk of serious or fatal injuries. Intent is not an element of reckless endangerment, unlike first- and second-degree assault. Reckless endangerment is a misdemeanor that carries up to a five-year jail sentence.
Defenses to Assault Charges
Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case and develop an effective criminal defense. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your arrest, we might argue that:
- You acted in self-defense.
- Your intention was not to injure another person.
- You were misidentified.
- The alleged victim gave consent— for example, in a date rape allegation
If appropriate in your case, we might also attempt to demonstrate that you did not have a weapon or that the victim’s injuries were not serious. We may be able to get your felony aggravated assault charge reduced to a misdemeanor simple assault charge.
Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Provide Experienced Representation After an Assault Arrest
Get the information you need to effectively fight assault charges. Call a Baltimore criminal defense lawyer at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact our firm online for a complete analysis of your case. Our Baltimore defense law firm offers a free initial appointment.