Maryland Assault and Battery Defense Lawyer

Reliable Defense Attorney for Assault Charges in Maryland

While assault may not seem like a serious offense compared to other violent crimes, it still carries the possibility of years in prison if you are convicted. As such, it is important that you put up an aggressive defense against a charge of misdemeanor or felony assault. An assault defense lawyer can provide you with legal advice and advocacy throughout your case, making sure that you are fairly represented in court.

At Craig M. Kadish & Associates, LLC, we have experience representing clients in all kinds of criminal cases, including assault. With over 60 years of shared experience between our attorneys, we have the resources and legal knowledge to help you contest the charges against you.

Assault in the Second Degree

In the state of Maryland, misdemeanor assault, otherwise known as assault in the second degree, is the intentional and unwanted touching of another. It is not necessary that any injury be incurred by the victim. Assault is considered a crime of violence, and though it is a misdemeanor, second-degree assault in Maryland carries a possible penalty of up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.

Assault of a Police Officer, Etc.

In the state of Maryland, even what may only be a misdemeanor assault against a common citizen may be elevated to a felony if the victim of that assault is a police officer, probation agent, or a first responder at work. The penalties for this type of assault are a 10-year maximum prison sentence and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Assault in the First Degree

In Maryland, assault in the first degree is ordinarily charged when a defendant intentionally causes or attempts to cause serious physical injury to another. Additionally, first-degree assault includes all assaults with a firearm. First-degree assault will also be charged in many cases where a choking has occurred. The maximum penalty for first-degree assault is incarceration for up to 25 years.

If you or someone you know is charged with first-degree assault, it is vital that you obtain an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Sentencing in first-degree assault cases is often very harsh, especially if serious injury has been incurred by the victim. However, it is important to realize that a defendant may be charged and subsequently convicted of assault in the first degree even if no one ever sustains an injury.

Defenses Against an Assault Charge

One of the most common defense strategies against an assault charge is claiming self-defense. However, this is not applicable to every situation. To claim self-defense, you must be able to prove that you used a reasonable amount of force to subdue the threat. You cannot claim self-defense if you started the fight to begin with.

Other possible defenses may revolve around the specifics of your case. For example, you may be able to mitigate an assault charge if you can demonstrate that the alleged victim consented to your conduct. Similarly, you may be able to avoid prosecution if you can show that the perceived assault was entirely accidental on your part.

Reach out to a Maryland Assault Defense Attorney Today

If you have been arrested for assault in the second or first degree, Craig M. Kadish & Associates, LLC can help. Our violent crime defense lawyers can help you formulate a legal strategy tailored to your situation. Call us at 410-837-0020 or contact us online to set up a free consultation today.