Connecticut Second-Degree Assault Lawyer
While some may assume that an arrest for assault in the second-degree is significantly less serious than a first-degree charge, the fact is that both offenses have the potential to bring extremely serious consequences to those convicted of committing them. From extended incarceration, loss of employment, costly financial penalties and other unpleasant consequences, it is vital for everyone accused of such crimes to reach out to an accomplished assault attorney at our firm.
By securing the guidance and insights of an experienced Connecticut second-degree assault lawyer soon after charges are lodged, defendants can maximize the chances of securing the positive outcome they desire.
Defining the Charge
A defendant is guilty of committing the Class D felony offense of second-degree assault if:
- With an intent to produce serious physical harm to another, they do produce such harm to that individual or another
- With an intent to produce physical harm to another, they do cause such harm by using a dangerous instrument or deadly weapon other than a firearm
- They recklessly produce serious physical harm to another by way of a dangerous instrument or deadly weapon
- Administers to another without consent a substance, drug or substance capable of producing unconsciousness, stupor, or impairment for a purpose other than a therapeutic or lawful medical one
- They have been paroled from a correctional facility and, with an intent to injure an employee or member of the Pardons and Paroles Board, do in fact because such harm
- With an intent to produce serious physical harm to another party by causing a loss of consciousness, they that party on the head without provocation.
A Connecticut second-degree assault attorney can help an individual defend their charge by employing one of many possible defense strategies.
Sentences Upon Conviction
As any second-degree assault lawyer in Connecticut will understand, the punishments that can be anticipated following a second-degree assault arrest in Connecticut are significant and varied, possibly including imprisonment of up to five years, $5,000 in fines, strict conditions of probationary supervision, and mandatory community service requirements.
It is also crucial for those accused of assault offenses of this type to realize that under certain factual scenarios, they may also be vulnerable to certain sentencing enhancements which can make their situations even more difficult to manage. For instance:
- Conviction for second-degree assault with a firearm brings with it a term of incarceration of which the first year may not be reduced or suspended by a judge
- Those found guilty of second-degree assault against a blind, elderly, disabled, pregnant or intellectually impaired person may not have the initial two years of their prison sentence reduced by the court
- Second-degree assaults against elderly, blind, pregnant, disabled or intellectually impaired persons in which a firearm is used result in prison sentences of which the initial three years may not be judicially reduced or suspended
Seek Help from a Connecticut Second-Degree Assault Attorney
When assault charges of any sort are lodged, accused individuals may feel that their chances of obtaining a positive outcome are slim. However, it is necessary for all criminal defendants to remember that they remain innocent until proven guilty, and it is up to the prosecution to establish every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
By securing the help of a dedicated legal professional at our firm, it is often possible to marshal effective arguments that undermine the state’s evidence and achieve beneficial results.
The sooner the guidance of a knowledgeable second-degree assault lawyer in Connecticut is sought, the greater the likelihood of success. If you are facing second-degree assault charges, delay is not an option. Now is the time to begin asserting your right to fair treatment under the law and fighting to protect your future. Contact us today.