Ocean City Assault Lawyer
Hire Steve to Defend Your Assault Charge
Assault is a common criminal charge in Maryland that carries up to 10 years in prison.
An assault conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record. If you have been charged with assault, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
At the Law Office of Steven W. Rakow, Steve has extensive experience defending clients against assault charges in Ocean City and throughout the state of Maryland. Steve understands the serious consequences an assault conviction may have on your life. Let Steve work to protect your rights and your future.
If you have been charged with assault, call (443) 856-6376 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our firm.
Understanding Assault Charges in Maryland
Assault is defined as an intentional act that causes a reasonable apprehension of harmful or offensive contact. You can be charged with assault even if you never touch another person.
For example, if you raise your fist at someone in a threatening manner, you can be charged with assault. The key element in an assault charge is that the victim must have a reasonable apprehension of harmful or offensive contact.
Assault is a misdemeanor in Maryland. The penalties for assault include up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. If you are convicted of assault, you will also have a criminal record, which can make it difficult to find a job, get a loan, or find housing. A conviction also results in you becoming a prohibited person with respect to possession of a firearm of any kind. This means you will not be able to possess or use a firearm after an assault conviction.
Strategies for Defending Against Assault
There are several defenses that can be used to fight assault charges. The best defense strategy will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. An experienced criminal defense attorney will review the facts of your case and determine the best defense strategy.
Some common defenses to assault charges include:
- Self-Defense: You have the right to defend yourself if you reasonably believe that you are in imminent danger of being touched in a harmful or offensive manner. If you are charged with assault, you can argue that you were acting in self-defense.
- Defense of Others: You have the right to defend others if you reasonably believe that they are in imminent danger of being touched in a harmful or offensive manner. If you are charged with assault, you can argue that you were acting in defense of others.
- Defense of Property: You have the right to defend your property if you reasonably believe that it is in imminent danger of being damaged or stolen. If you are charged with assault, you can argue that you were acting in defense of property.
- Consent: You cannot be charged with assault if the victim consented to the contact. If you are charged with assault, you can argue that the victim consented to the contact.
- False Accusations: Unfortunately, many people are falsely accused of assault. If that is the case, you can argue that the victim is lying or mistaken.
What Evidence Is Required to Charge Someone With Assault?
1. Physical Evidence
If physical contact was made, the evidence left behind plays a crucial role in determining guilt. This may include things like visible injuries to the victim, such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones. Photographs of the injuries taken by law enforcement or medical personnel can be powerful evidence, helping to demonstrate the severity and immediacy of the attack. For instance, if the victim can provide medical records that show they sought treatment for injuries consistent with an assault, this can bolster the case against the defendant. Additionally, weapons such as knives, guns, or blunt objects used in the confrontation may be considered physical evidence.
2. Eyewitness Testimony
Witness testimony can significantly impact the outcome of an assault charge. Eyewitnesses who saw the assault take place can provide statements regarding what happened, the nature of the assault, and the behavior of the defendant. These individuals can help corroborate the victim's version of events or provide a different perspective on the situation. The credibility of the witnesses, however, can be scrutinized during trial.
3. Victim and Defendant Statements
The statements made by both the victim and the defendant are pivotal in determining whether there is enough evidence to press charges. The victim's account of the assault is critical, as it may provide context, motive, and detail. If the defendant admits to committing the assault or provides a confession, it can significantly strengthen the case for the prosecution. However, it is not uncommon for the defendant to deny the charges or claim self-defense, which can lead to further investigation.
4. Forensic Evidence
Forensic evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, and blood samples can also play a significant role. If there are signs of physical contact, such as blood or skin under the defendant's fingernails, forensic experts can provide valuable insights into the occurrence of the assault. The presence of the defendant's DNA on the victim's clothing, or vice versa, can be decisive in some cases.
5. Circumstantial Evidence
Circumstantial evidence can also help support an assault charge, though it is typically not as strong as direct evidence. For example, if the defendant was seen near the scene of the assault, or if there were threats made prior to the attack, these factors can support the prosecution's case. In many assault cases, circumstantial evidence may be used to build a narrative of events leading up to the incident, which can be persuasive in court if indicative of the person's later actions.
Contact Steve Rakow to Represent You in Your Assault Case
If you have been charged with assault, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. At the Law Office of Steven W. Rakow, LLC, Steve Rakow has extensive experience defending clients against assault charges in Ocean City, throughout the Eastern Shore, and in the state of Maryland.
Steve Rakow understands the serious consequences these charges can have on your life. We work tirelessly to protect your rights and your future. We will conduct a thorough investigation into the charges against you, review the evidence, and develop an aggressive defense strategy.
If you have been charged with assault, call 410-600-3075 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with Steve Rakow.