Bellingham Assault AttorneyAssault is a crime for which you may face a lengthy sentence if convicted in Washington. Several charges fall under the umbrella of “assault,” and these crimes are arranged in a hierarchy of degrees based upon the severity of the actions. Many employers view a conviction for assault as a violent offense that will carry a strong impact throughout your future. If you have been charged with assault in Bellingham, it is urgent that you seek experienced and thorough legal counsel right away.
Defending against assault charges in Bellingham is challenging because the courts are generally very careful to protect the alleged victim with no contact orders, removal of your firearms, and oftentimes assault crimes result in these restrictions before the evidence is even heard by a jury. An experienced assault defense attorney will dedicate himself to gathering all the facts surrounding your case to ensure that you have the best opportunity to fight the charges against you. |
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In Washington, assault is committed when a person has either made offensive contact or attempted to hurt another person, or has placed another in fear of injury by some physical act. Under this definition, threats are common methods of assault. |
Assault in WashingtonThere are four degrees of assault in Bellingham, ranging from fourth-degree assault which is a gross-misdemeanor crime, to first-degree assault, which is considered a felony:
First degree assault involves assault with a firearm or other deadly weapon with the intent to do serious bodily harm, or assault that results in great bodily harm.
Second degree assault can also involve assault with a deadly weapon, assault while attempting to commit a felony, and other more specific types of assault but both 1st and 2nd degree assault are considered a serious strike offense in Washington for sentencing purposes. (Note: three strike offenses result in a life prison sentence).
Third degree assault includes assault on various types of public employees and other workers, and assault without the intent to commit serious bodily harm. Criminal negligence may be present in third degree assault if it leads to a serious injury. This felony assault is considered a crime against person and will remain on your record permanently if convicted.
Fourth degree assault is a gross misdemeanor and includes assault that is not serious enough to be a higher degree. Only fourth degree assault is a misdemeanor and not a felony crime, for which maximum penalties are a fine of $5,000 and a year in a Whatcom County jail. |
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If you face assault charges, you need a dedicated Bellingham assault attorney on your side for the best chance of a favorable outcome. Call T M Anderson Law at (360) 734-0908 for a free and confidential legal consultation. |
I am a local boy, born and raised in Whatcom County, and I understand the complexities and inner-workings of this very interesting and diverse community. My families have lived here for at least 5 generations and I am proud of my heritage and deep roots here.
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