Gaithersburg, MD Assault Defense Attorney

Trusted Defense Lawyer for Assault Charges in Gaithersburg, Maryland

The threshold for accusing someone of assault can be surprisingly low. While the legal penalties for assault may not be as extreme as the consequences for murder, a conviction can still lead to severe repercussions such as a permanent criminal record, a prison sentence, and thousands of dollars in fines. If you or a loved one are facing allegations of assault in Gaithersburg, do not hesitate to seek experienced legal counsel.

An attorney with experience handling violent crimes can provide the legal help needed to address charges of assault. The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. has more than 300 five-star reviews from satisfied clients who can vouch for our tenacious, comprehensive, and compassionate legal support in criminal cases. Our Gaithersburg, MD assault defense lawyer is more than prepared to fight for your rights, your livelihood, and your future.

What Counts as Assault in Maryland?

While some states do, Maryland does not differentiate between the terms "assault" and "battery." In other words, causing injuries or threatening to cause harm will fall under the general umbrella of assault.

Assault charges can vary significantly in severity. Reckless endangerment, for example, is a misdemeanor offense that may apply when a person is accused of engaging in behavior that could seriously injure or kill someone else, even if no one actually ended up getting hurt. Throwing an object out of a window before checking if someone could get hurt below or firing a gun in the air at a gathering are both forms of reckless endangerment. In these cases, a conviction could result in up to five years in prison and fines as high as $5,000.

Even making physical contact with someone in a non-harmful way can have serious legal ramifications. A person could be charged with second-degree assault based on accusations that they threatened someone, pushed or slapped a person, or made another type of contact that was threatening, offensive, or provocative. Second-degree assault is a felony offense, and it carries a maximum penalty of 10 years behind bars.

Charges of first-degree assault are even more serious. A person could be charged with this crime if they are accused of intentionally causing a serious injury. This offense is prosecuted as a felony and is punishable by incarceration for as many as 25 years.

Domestic Violence

Under state law, domestic violence charges are usually classified as assault. While the potential sentence that may apply if a person is convicted of domestic assault will be the same as in other types of assault cases, courts may consider the defendant's relationship to the alleged victim, and they may impose harsher consequences. In some cases, orders of protection may be put in place that could restrict a person from contacting the alleged victim, returning to their home, and maintaining custody of their children. If you have been accused of assault against a family member, a current or former spouse, a current or former romantic partner, or a roommate, a strong legal defense will be crucial to protect your rights.

Defending Against Assault Allegations in Gaithersburg

Every assault case will involve unique circumstances. Issues such as the extent of the harm that was suffered by the alleged victim, the credibility of witness statements, the relationships between the parties involved, and the available evidence may affect the specific charges, the approach taken by prosecutors, and the options for defense. Since the prosecution bears the burden of proof and must prove that a defendant committed a crime beyond a reasonable doubt, effective strategies may include:

• Highlighting insufficient evidence
• Demonstrating that there was a lack of intent to commit assault
• Showing that a person acted in self-defense or defense of others

At The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC., our lawyer will closely examine witnesses' testimony, police reports, and other evidence to determine what defenses may be available. He will work to cast doubt on the claims made by the prosecution and secure a dismissal or acquittal whenever possible.

Contact Our Gaithersburg Assault Defense Lawyer

Charges of assault need to be handled with diligence, care, and compassion. The experienced lawyer at The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. cares about the outcome of your case, and he will work to protect your rights. To set up a free consultation and begin taking the right steps to defend against a criminal conviction, contact our Gaithersburg, Maryland assault attorney at 301-589-9500.