Facing an assault charge can be complicated and stressful. No one expects to need to defend themselves against an assault accusation. In some cases, you can face this charge even if you did not cause any injury. Some assault charges may not even require physical contact. Whatever situation led you here, we understand what a difficult time facing any criminal charge can be. If you are in this situation, especially if this is the first time you have been accused of a violent crime, you probably need guidance.
Here are the first 3 steps that you should take after an assault charge:
1. Educate Yourself on Key Definitions
Do you know all the information on what charges you are up against? If not, your first step should be to educate yourself on all the key definitions related to criminal assault and battery. There are four main types, with the first three being misdemeanors and the final being a felony. Here are the basics of each type:
- Class 3: This is the least serious possible assault charge. In this case, there is no actual physical injury, but rather an accusation that you knowingly touched the other party with the intent to cause bodily harm.
- Class 2: This includes cases where the assailant recklessly causes an injury or has intentionally put the victim in a situation where they fear physical harm. This requires an act of aggression, not simply a verbal threat.
- Class 1: A Class 1 charge is the most serious misdemeanor, and requires either intentionally or knowingly causing an injury. This charge doe requires an actual physical attack.
- Aggravated Assault: Arizona uses this term for battery charges, and it is the only felony charge. It requires a serious injury, use of a deadly weapon, or can be an assault against a protected class such as a public official.
2. Avoid Sharing Information
After getting charged with a serious crime, you probably want to talk to friends and family about the events. You may also be tempted to reach out to the accuser and explain your side of the story. However, this is one of the worst things you can do. Any information you share can cause issues with your criminal trial.
It’s also important not to share anything on social media. If you have already shared, do not delete these as the court may consider this tampering with evidence. However, do not add any more information online. The less you say, the better for your case.
3. Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
Fighting an assault charge is complicated, and you may not fully understand the definitions of different terms. For example, the adverbs in class definitions can be tricky. What is the difference between knowingly and intentionally, for example? A criminal defense attorney will help you navigate this with ease.
Your lawyer will also guide you through your possible defenses, from mistaken identity to self-defense. They will find the best way to fight for you. Assault charges are violent crimes, so even if you have a misdemeanor charge it’s important to take it seriously and seek legal help.
Let Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Help You
Defend Yourself Against Assault Charges
If you need a criminal defense attorney to help you defend yourself against assault charges, Grabb & Durando’s DUI Defense Team can help. We will do everything in our power to help you avoid jail time and expensive fines.
