DC Assault Lawyer

Assault is a very serious offense committed against another person. Although there are several different DC assault crimes you can be charged with, they all carry the potential for jail time and a permanent criminal record. From misdemeanor simple assault to assault with significant injury and aggravated assault, all of these crimes are considered very serious within the DC court system.

DC simple assault is a misdemeanor and is defined as making an attempt or effort with the force of violence, to injure someone else with the ability to injure the person. In order for the prosecution to prove you are guilty of simple assault, they must also prove your alleged actions were voluntary and purposeful. Even if you only intend to frighten the alleged victim you could face this charge. Misdemeanor simple assault that results in minimal bodily injury carries a potential $1,000 fine and 180 days in jail.

More serious than simple assault, DC assault with significant injury carries a potential 3 year prison sentence and $3,000 in fines. This particular charge may be levied against you if it's believed you either intended or knew your conduct would result in "significant bodily injury". Significant bodily injury is defined under DC statute as injury that requires hospitalization or immediate medical attention.

Perhaps the most serious of all DC Assault charges and definitely one that carries very severe penalties, aggravated assault is a felony that carries up to ten years in prison and $10,000 in fines. It is defined as causing "serious bodily injury" in a knowing or purposeful manner. Serious bodily injury involves injury that creates a substantial risk of death, unconsciousness, extreme pain, or protracted and obvious disfigurement. Even if you are only charged with attempted aggravated assault, you could serve up to 5 years in prison and pay $5,000 in fines.

Assault charges can rob you of your freedom and force you to carry a violent criminal record for the rest of your life. A DC assault lawyer can help you build the best defense strategy for your specific circumstances, ensuring you get the best results possible on your day in court.