New Haven Assault Lawyer
The mere threat of violence could result in an arrest for assault in New Haven. For this reason, understanding the behaviors that may qualify as assault and may rise to different assault classifications is essential to achieving a favorable outcome to your case.
If you were—or believe you could soon be—charged with assault, you should contact a New Haven assault lawyer immediately. An experienced criminal defense attorney working on your behalf can explain the applicable criminal laws surrounding your case, and go over your legal rights with you as well as all defenses available to you to protect yourself from a criminal record.
What Impacts an Assault Charge in New Haven?
The degree of assault charge a person can be charged with depends on the severity of an incident. Depending on the circumstances, penalties generally range from mandatory fines to lengthy prison sentences. Charges may be influenced by:
- Level of harm or injuries sustained
- Intent
- Relationships between the involved parties
- Aggravating factors of an incident
What Are the Degrees of Assault Charges in New Haven?
There are three degrees of assault in New Haven. Each degree of assault carries a different penalty in New Haven. All assault charges are generally based on acts that cause intentional or reckless bodily injury to another.
First-Degree Assault
Under CGS § 53a-59, first-degree assault, or assault with a firearm, occurs when a person intentionally causes a serious injury to another with a deadly weapon. First-degree assault typically involves:
- Serious injury with a deadly weapon
- Disfigurement of a body part
- Reckless behavior that results in serious injury
- Causing serious harm with the assistance of two or more individuals
- Serious injury caused by firearm use
First-degree assault is a class B felony, punishable by up to 25 years in prison and up to $15,000 in fines.
Second-Degree Assault
Under CGS § 53a-60, second-degree assault occurs anytime a person intentionally causes serious injury or bodily harm to another person using a deadly weapon other than a firearm. This can sometimes include the administration of drugs without a medical casue.
Second-degree assault is a class D felony and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.
Third-Degree Assault
Under CGS § 53a-61, third-degree assault occurs when an individual intentionally or recklessly causes physical injury to another individual. This can sometimes include the negligent use of a deadly weapon. Third-degree assault is a class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in prison and up to a $2,000 fine.
Contact An Experienced New Haven Assault Attorney Today
If you are charged with any degree of assault in New Haven, contact a top assault attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights. All assault charges carry hefty punishments and the possibility of long sentences or expensive fines in the mix. Contact a New Haven assault lawyer to discuss your legal options as soon as possible and help you decide your next step.