Gaithersburg Assault Lawyer

Attorney for Misdemeanor or Felony Assault Charges in Gaithersburg, MD

People may become involved in arguments or disputes in a variety of situations. In some cases, these matters may get out of control, leading to pushing and shoving, punches being thrown, or other actions that could lead to injuries or put someone at risk of harm. When police are called to an incident, or when someone makes accusations that a person intentionally tried to injure them, arrests may be performed, and charges of assault may apply.

An assault charge can be a serious legal matter. Depending on the circumstances of a case, a person could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense. If they are convicted, they could face multiple types of penalties, including being required to serve time in jail or prison and pay high fines. A conviction will also give a person a permanent criminal record, which can have consequences on their life in the future, including their ability to find a job, rent a home, or obtain a professional license.

At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, our attorney can provide a strong defense against assault charges, helping clients determine what steps to take to avoid convictions. He focuses on providing a level of service that will give clients the assurance that legal matters are being handled correctly, including keeping clients informed about what will happen during their cases, advising them on the outcome they can expect, and fully preparing them for appearing in court when required.

Second-Degree or First-Degree Assault Charges

Assault offenses may involve intentionally injuring someone or acting in a way that caused someone to believe that they will suffer harm. A person may also be charged with assault based on accusations that they made contact with someone else in a way that was offensive, such as by slapping or shoving them.

In many cases, people who are accused of these offenses may be charged with second-degree assault. This misdemeanor offense carries a prison sentence that may last for up to 10 years, as well as a potential fine as high as $2,500.

When a person is accused of committing assault and inflicting serious physical injuries or using a firearm or other dangerous weapon, they could be charged with first-degree assault. This offense is also known as aggravated assault, and it is classified as a felony. In these cases, the maximum prison sentence that a person may face may be as high as 25 years.

Situations That May Lead to Assault Charges

Bar and Nightlife Altercations

People in bars, nightclubs, or restaurants may become involved in arguments for a variety of reasons. These disputes may involve fans of rival sports teams, people who behave aggressively, or arguments with bouncers or members of security staff. When arguments turn physical, or when a person is accused of acting in a way that indicated that they were going to harm someone else, assault charges may apply.

Disputes Between Neighbors or Acquaintances

People who know each other may become involved in disputes over property lines, parking spaces, noise complaints, or other types of personal conflicts. When someone is accused of acting in a threatening manner or causing an injury, the other party may call the police and accuse the person of assault. These cases often involve conflicting accounts about what happened, and there may be questions about who initiated a confrontation or who escalated a situation.

Domestic Incidents

Arguments between spouses, family members, or people who live in the same home may result in the police being called. In many cases, officers will arrest a person who is believed to be the primary aggressor in a domestic situation. Arrests for domestic violence may not only lead to assault charges, but restraining orders may also be put in place that can restrict a person's ability to return to their home and contact their spouse, children, or other family members.

Road Rage

In some cases, confrontations between drivers may escalate to threats, physical contact, or the use of a vehicle in a threatening manner. Accusations of aggressive or threatening behavior can result in assault charges. A person could also be accused of reckless driving if they allegedly caused an accident or acted aggressively while behind the wheel.

Workplace and School Disputes

Fights may take place at schools, and the students involved could be arrested and charged with assault. When arguments take place in work settings, a person may be accused of assaulting a co-worker. These cases may involve multiple witnesses, including employees, supervisors, school administrators, or other students.

Contact Our Gaithersburg, Maryland Assault Attorney

Securing legal representation is one of the most important things do to after being charged with assault. At the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder, our attorney can help you determine the best steps to take to ensure that you will be able to defend against these charges. He can gather and preserve evidence, review statements from witnesses, challenge the accusations against you, and work to resolve your case successfully. Contact our Gaithersburg assault defense lawyer at 301-762-7500 to arrange a free consultation and begin building your defense.