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    Fairfield Strangulation Lawyer

    As a knowledgeable attorney can explain, any criminal allegations involving suffocation or strangulation can result in unique criminal charges. If you face these types of accusations, speak with a Fairfield strangulation lawyer to discuss your legal defense.

    How is Strangulation Classified as a Criminal Offense?

    The Connecticut General Statutes establish three degrees of criminal strangulation, all of which involve someone interfering with another person’s blood circulation and/or ability to breathe by obstructing that other person’s nose or mouth and/or restraining them by the neck.

    What is Third-Degree Strangulation?

    Someone who strangles another person through a reckless act without directly intending to impede their breathing or blood flow may be charged with strangulation in the third degree under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) § 53a-64cc. This class A misdemeanor could result in a one-year maximum jail term and/or a maximum $2,000 fine upon conviction.

    What is Second-Degree Strangulation?

    Someone who strangles another person with the intent to impede their breathing or blood flow has committed second-degree strangulation. According to C.G.S. §53a-64bb, this offense is a class D felony. Anyone convicted may face maximum sanctions of five years in state prison plus $5,000 in fines.

    What is First-Degree Strangulation?

    First-degree strangulation involves much of the same as second degree, but includes the presence of additional aggravating factors, such as:

    • Having a prior conviction for felony strangulation
    • Using or trying to use a dangerous instrument
    • Directly causing severe physical injury

    As a Fairfield strangulation attorney can further explain, C.G.S. §53a-64aa categorizes this crime as a class C felony. This means a convicted individual might face a one- to ten-year prison sentence, plus a $10,000 maximum fine.

    What is Domestic Violence Suffocation?

    If you allegedly strangle a household member, family member, or intimate partner, any ensuing charges for criminal strangulation may be classified as domestic violence. This designation does not allow a criminal court to impose enhanced penalties upon conviction. However, it will result in a protective order for the duration of the case put in place by the criminal court at your arraignment and could lead to an additional protective order should the complaining party or victim seek one from the family court. To learn more about protective order defense, click here.

    Depending on the circumstances, domestic violence strangulation or suffocation may also lead to the Department of Children and Families opening an investigation into your home life. They may recommend further action if the investigation substantiates suspicions of abuse or neglect. This could even lead to the removal of your children from your home. Getting DCF out of your life as fast as you can is of utmost importance, to learn more follow this link. A strangulation lawyer in Fairfield can be a crucial source of support throughout these proceedings and the criminal prosecution process.

    Consider Working with a Fairfield Strangulation Attorney

    Strangulation can be a difficult criminal charge to fight against in many respects. There are also numerous repercussions that a domestic violence designation could have on top of possible criminal sanctions. Without seasoned legal representation on your side, you may have slim odds of getting a positive result in your case. You can read testimonials from those we’ve helped in the past by clicking here, or checking our attorneys out on Avvo.com.

    A Fairfield strangulation lawyer can explain your rights and legal options in detail during a private initial consultation. Schedule yours by calling Mark Sherman Law today.