When you’re facing assault charges in the city of Washington D.C., you’re up against some fairly harsh laws. A difference of just a few miles down the road in Maryland or Virginia means the difference between state court and an appearance in front of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
It makes sense to get help from an attorney experienced with the laws and court systems of the District of Columbia.
A criminal charge like assault can haunt you for years to come. Disclosing a violent offense on a job application or on a lease application can seriously impact your opportunities down the road. Keeping a charge like that off your record should be your number one concern.
Contact us to be put in touch with a local attorney that can help!
You can face criminal assault charges in D.C. without ever laying a hand on another person.
Threats to do Bodily Harm
Considered an assault offense, threatening to do bodily harm requires no physical contact. If it’s believed that you threatened to do harm to someone you can face this misdemeanor charge. This threat can take place over the phone, email, or even via text messages.
Maybe you were being sarcastic. Your intention may have been misinterpreted, however, and now you are facing criminal charges. This criminal offense carries a potential 6 months in jail and $500 in fines.
Ref: DC Code §22-407
DC Assault Laws
General Assault is typically defined as the unwanted touching of another person.
You don’t have to hit or even push them. Merely putting your hands on them can get you charged with this misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and $1,000 in fines.
Ref: DC Code §22-404
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault is a felony charge. This is a far more serious offense than just misdemeanor assault. In order for the prosecution to prove you committed aggravated assault, they must show that you:
a) knowingly or purposefully caused serious bodily injury to someone, or
b) engaged in conduct that put others at extreme risk of serious injury and the action caused such injury.
Generally, aggravated assault is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $10,000. However, attempted aggravated assault carries a potential 5 year prison sentence and fines of $5,000.
Ref: DC Code §22-404.01
Assault with Intent to Commit Another Offense
If it can be proved that you assaulted someone while intending to commit another offense, you could face this charge. It is often applied in cases like robbery.
This is a felony charge that carries a potential 5 years in prison and fines.
Ref: DC Code 22-403
When you’re under the jurisdiction of D.C. courts, you need a D.C. defense attorney. Contact us today to speak with an experienced defense lawyer who fights and defends criminal cases in the district.