Glen Burnie Assault Defense Lawyers

Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyers for Clients in Glen Burnie, Maryland

In Maryland, assault is a serious criminal charge, and if you are convicted of this offense, you could face years in prison depending on the severity of the act. With the help of a Glen Burnie criminal defense lawyer, you can contest the charges against you and negotiate for a favorable outcome.

At Zide Law Group, LLC, we have over decades of experience handling criminal defense cases on behalf of Maryland residents. When you work with our firm, you will receive legal assistance from an involved advocate who cares about the outcome of your case. Our lawyers will work to protect your best interests and explore your options to defend against an assault charge.

Misdemeanor Assault

Most acts of assault are classified as misdemeanors in Maryland. This includes intentionally injuring another person, making a threat of physical harm, or attempting to cause physical harm to someone else. These acts all fall under assault in the second degree, which is punishable by up to a decade of incarceration and a possible fine of up to $2,500.

Felony Assault

In certain situations, the act of assault can be charged as a felony. Assault in the second degree carries felony penalties if the act is committed against someone the offender knows to be a police officer, parole or probation agent, or first responder. This carries the same possible prison sentence as misdemeanor assault, but the judge can impose a doubled fine of up to $5,000.

Assault in the first degree is a much more serious charge. This crime is characterized by causing, attempting to cause, or threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The act of strangling someone else, using a firearm during an act of assault, or otherwise intentionally causing serious injury to another person all qualify as first-degree assault. On a conviction, this crime is punishable by up to 25 years in prison.

Can I Claim Self-Defense Against an Assault Charge in Maryland?

Sometimes, the use of violence is necessary to protect yourself or other people from imminent danger. That being said, it is not a catch-all defense for any assault charge. To claim self-defense against an assault charge, you must be able to prove all of the following:

• You were not the aggressor OR you did not escalate the fight to the level of lethal force
• You believed that you were in immediate danger of bodily harm
• You used a reasonable amount of force to subdue the perceived threat

Additionally, in order to claim self-defense, you must have already attempted to avoid the altercation by running away. This is known as the duty of retreat. However, there are exceptions to this duty, such as if you were attacked inside your home. Even if you do not meet all of the requirements for a self-defense claim, you could still argue for reduced charges based on imperfect self-defense.

At Zide Law Group, LLC, we can review your case to see if you have a viable self-defense claim. We can also look for other ways to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed, such as citing a lack of evidence from the prosecution, or contesting false allegations of assault in court. When you work with our firm, you can rest assured that we will do everything we can to protect you.

Meet With a Glen Burnie, MD Assault Defense Attorney Today

If you have been arrested for assault, Zide Law Group, LLC is here to represent you. Our Glen Burnie criminal defense lawyers have the skills and legal knowledge to guide you through the legal proceedings. To schedule a complimentary consultation, call us at 410-760-9433 or reach out to us online today.