Ridgefield Assault Lawyer
Ridgefield police make assault arrests in a variety of situations. Assault arrests in Ridgefield, Connecticut are perhaps most frequent in the context of domestic violence cases. Other times, individuals who come to the defense of another person can find themselves charged with assault.
While there are varying degrees of assault, all the offenses are serious. Those convicted can be imprisoned and assessed heavy fines, in addition to the other reputational consequences of a felony conviction. A capable criminal attorney could work tirelessly to defend an individual’s case. Contact a Ridgefield assault lawyer today, and know that you are in good hands.
What Are The Penalties for Assault Arrests?
Although all forms of assault are punishable by a substantial term of imprisonment, the maximum sentences that can be imposed depend on whether you are charged with assault in the first, second, or third-degree. The most serious assault crimes are generally treated as class B felonies, with sentences ranging from five to 20 years and maximum fines of up to $15,000. In certain circumstances, the offense can escalate to a class A felony with increased penalties.
By contrast, the least serious assault crimes are treated as class A misdemeanors. These offenses are punishable by a maximum one year term of imprisonment and a fine of up to $2,000. Other assault offenses fall in between as class C or D felonies, with prison sentences ranging from one to ten years and fines up to $5,000 or $10,000. A Ridgefield assault attorney could attempt to mitigate the penalties that a person may face.
Fighting Felony Assault Charges
Ridgefield has numerous assault statutes on record, most of which are classified as felonies.
Assault in the first-degree, defined in CGS § 53a-59, is the most serious form of assault. It frequently—but not always—involves the use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument to intentionally cause serious physical injury. For instance, if one person pulls a knife, threatens to cut someone, and then proceeds to cause a serious wound with the knife, that would be a first-degree assault.
Second-Degree Assault Offenses
Second-degree assault is defined in CGS § 53a-60, which provides several different scenarios that constitute the offense. These may involve use of a deadly weapon, but not with intent to cause serious injury.
When certain aggravating factors come into play, the offense can become more serious. Examples include situations where an assault causes termination of a pregnancy, or where it is carried out against a vulnerable class of victims, such as an elderly or disabled people. A qualified Ridgefield assault attorney could ensure the charges being faced are fully understood.
What is Third-Degree Assault?
Third-degree assault charges under CGS § 53a-61 are only classified as misdemeanors, but they are among the most serious misdemeanors, punishable by up to a year of incarceration. In some cases, the one-year sentence may not be suspended or reduced. Assault in the third-degree occurs when someone either intentionally but not seriously injures another, or seriously injures another recklessly but not intentionally. If an individual is injured due to negligence with a deadly weapon, that can also be treated as assault in the third-degree.
Aggravated Assault Charges in Ridgefield
An assault is treated more severely when certain circumstances factor into the situation. Factors that may aggravate the severity of a Ridgefield assault charge in Danbury Superior Court include:
- Use of a weapon
- Discharge of a firearm
- Age or infirmity of the individual injured by the assault
- Severe injuries
- Termination of a pregnancy
- Attack against a first responder, law enforcement personnel or similar public servants
- Intention of causing serious physical injury
It is vital to retain the services of a seasoned attorney who can properly defend against these types of assault charges.
Contact a Ridgefield Assault Attorney
The stakes are high in assault cases. However, there are successful defense strategies that can be pursued. A Ridgefield assault lawyer who knows how the Danbury courts handle assault cases can evaluate your case. Work with a legal advocate that could advise you on your options and help you reach the best possible outcome. Contact our firm today today.