Ferndale Assault AttorneyCriminal assault is a violent crime that can bring upon serious penalties if you are convicted in the state of Washington. Assault is a broad umbrella term that covers several different charges. The consequences for conviction of these crimes can be more or less severe depending on the extent of the damage caused. Assault can be a misdemeanor or felony offense in Ferndale, yet the majority of possible assault crimes are felony offenses. Any assault conviction carries strong repercussions that can affect many areas of your life. If you are facing assault charges in Ferndale, we urge you to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who handles assault cases.
Assault defenses are challenging because the state seeks to protect the alleged victim to the extent that it affects your defense. Ferndale assault charges can lead to the loss of contact between you and the alleged victim, and the loss of your guns before you even have the opportunity to present your case in court. |
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A dedicated attorney spends the time necessary to sort through the facts of your case and makes sure your rights are protected every step of the way. |
Washington Assault ChargesIn Ferndale, assault occurs when the assailant makes offensive or harmful physical contact with the victim, has attempted to make offensive or harmful physical contact, or has placed the victim in fear of being hurt by physical contact. If a threat is believable to the point that a reasonable person would be in fear of impending harm, it counts as assault in Washington.
Washington breaks up major assault charges into four degrees. Fourth-degree assault is the only one which is a gross misdemeanor crime. The rest are all considered felony offenses by the state of Washington.
A first degree assault charge is the most severe charge of assault anyone can face. Whether a deadly weapon, such as a firearm, was used with the intent to cause great bodily harm or the assault did result in great bodily harm, you could face several years in prison for this crime, on top of steep fines if you do not consult with an attorney.
Second degree assault can also involve assault with a deadly weapon. For example, assault that occurs while attempting to commit a felony can result in a second degree assault charge. Both first and second degree assault charges are considered serious strike offenses in Washington when sentencing is considered. Three strike offenses in Washington result in a lifetime prison sentence.
Third degree assault covers assault cases involving public employees and other workers. Even if there is no intent to commit serious bodily harm, third degree assault is a felony crime. Criminal negligence may be present in third degree assault if it leads to a serious injury. Felony assault crimes will stay on your record permanently if you are convicted.
Fourth degree assault is a gross misdemeanor crime. This area is generally reserved for assault crimes that are not severe enough to meet the standards for a higher degree charge. This is the only level of assault that classifies as a misdemeanor crime. Penalties for fourth degree assault can include a maximum fine of $5,000 and a year in a Whatcom County jail. |
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Don’t take just any defense attorney to defend your assault charges. These charges can seriously hinder your future. At this time, you must consult with an experienced and dedicated assault attorney in Ferndale to attempt to have your charges dismissed or reduced to lesser charges. Contact T M Anderson Law online or call (360) 734-0908 for a free 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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