The crime of aggravated assault is one that carries severe repercussions, including possible incarceration as well as significant financial fines. If you are accused of this offense, you need to understand the legal implications and your defense options. In this article, we will explain the basics of aggravated assault charges in Southern Minnesota and how to fight them.
What is Aggravated Assault?
According to Minnesota law, aggravated assault is not a specific charge, but a term that refers to the three most serious degrees of assault: first, second, and third degree. These are felony offenses that involve either inflicting great bodily harm on the victim, using a dangerous weapon, or assaulting a minor or a public official.
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1st Degree
This is the most serious level of battering in Minnesota. It occurs when you cause great bodily harm to the victim, such as increased risk of death, physical impairment, loss of a limb, or disfigurement. It can also occur when you use deadly force against a police officer, prosecutor, judge, or correctional officer who is performing their official duties.
Deadly force is any force that you use with the intent of causing death or great bodily harm, or that creates a substantial risk of doing so. Firing a firearm at someone or towards an occupied vehicle is automatically considered deadly force.
The maximum punishment for assault in the first degree is twenty years in jail with a fine of thirty thousand dollars.
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2nd Degree
This is also known as assault with a dangerous weapon. It occurs when you use a dangerous weapon in the assault, whether or not it causes injury. A dangerous weapon is any object that can cause death or great bodily harm, or that is used in a way that indicates such intent. Examples include guns, knives, baseball bats, or even cars.
If the assault with a dangerous weapon causes substantial bodily harm to the victim, such as broken bones, deep cuts, or internal injuries, the maximum sentence is ten years in jail with a fine of twenty thousand dollars. If the assault does not cause bodily harm or causes only minor injuries, the maximum sentence is seven years in jail and a fine of fourteen thousand dollars.
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3rd Degree
This charge applies if you assault a minor and have a history of child abuse, or if you assault a child under four years old who suffers multiple bruises or other injuries. It can also apply if you inflict substantial bodily harm on anyone by using force or violence.
The maximum penalty for third-degree assault is five years in jail along with a fine of ten thousand dollars.
How to Find a Good Southern Minnesota Assault Charge Attorney
If you are accused of aggravated assault, you need to find a good attorney as soon as possible, so, click here now to schedule a consultation with an experienced Southern Minnesota assault charge attorney. A good attorney can help you understand your charges, explore your options, negotiate with the prosecution, prepare your defense, and represent you in court. Here are some tips on how to find a good southern Minnesota assault charge attorney:
- Ask for referrals: One of the best ways to find a good attorney is to ask for referrals from people you trust, such as family members, friends, co-workers, or acquaintances who have faced similar charges or know someone who has. They can give you honest feedback on their experience with the attorney and whether they were satisfied with the outcome.
- Search online: Another way to find a good attorney is to search online using keywords such as “Southern Minnesota assault charge attorney”, “aggravated assault charges”, or “assault defense lawyer”. You can browse through different websites of law firms or individual attorneys and see their credentials, testimonials, case results, and contact information. You can also check online reviews and ratings from previous clients or peers.
- Consult with several attorneys: Once you have a list of potential attorneys, you should consult with several of them before making a decision. Most attorneys offer free initial consultations where they can evaluate your case and explain their fees and services. You should use this opportunity to ask questions about their experience, strategy, communication style, availability, and expectations. You should also compare their fees and see if they offer payment plans or contingency fees.
What to Look for When Choosing an Attorney
When choosing an attorney for your aggravated assault case, you should look for certain qualities that indicate their professionalism, competence, and dedication. Some of these qualities are:
- Experience: You should look for an attorney who has experience in handling aggravated assault cases similar to yours. They should know the laws and procedures related to your charges and have a track record of successful outcomes. They should also be familiar with the local courts and prosecutors and have a good reputation among them.
- Compassion: You should look for an attorney who shows compassion and understanding for your situation. They should listen to your story and concerns and treat you with respect and dignity. They should also be honest and realistic with you about your chances and risks.
- Communication: You should look for an attorney who communicates well with you throughout your case. They should keep you informed of any developments or changes in your case and answer your questions promptly and clearly. They should also be responsive and accessible when you need them.
- Aggressiveness: You should look for an attorney who is aggressive in defending your rights and interests. They should not be afraid to challenge the prosecution’s evidence or arguments or to take your case to trial if necessary.
Aggravated assault charges are not something to take lightly. They can have serious consequences for your future and your freedom. That’s why you need to contact a skilled and aggressive Southern Minnesota assault attorney as soon as possible. Don’t let one mistake ruin your life.
