Being accused of assault can be life-changing. The charge itself can result in a number of hardships, but it is the conviction that can truly affect you for the rest of your life. The conviction can follow you around on your criminal record and prevent you from being able to get a job you want or rent a home or apartment. Anything that involves a background check can result in you not getting what you strive for because the check reveals the conviction.
If you have been charged with assault, it is important to secure the representation of a Minneapolis criminal defense attorney. Through the proper representation, you can achieve an outcome that allows you to move forward with your life as soon as possible.
Fighting Assault Charges
There are two different types of assault: aggravated assault and domestic assault. These types are categorized in degrees when a person is charged and their penalties:
- First degree assault – Up to $30,000 in fines and 20 years in prison
- Second degree assault – Up to $20,000 in fines and 10 years in prison.
- Third degree assault – Up to $10,000 in fines and 5 years in prison.
- Fourth degree assault – Up to $3,000 in fines and one year in prison.
- Fifth degree assault – Up to 90 days in jail.
How assault is charged depends on certain specifics at the time of the alleged offense. The amount of harm that was inflicted; the victim’s age; whether or not a weapon was used; whether or not the assault was due to some kind of discrimination; and whether or not the victim was a police officer, EM, firefighter, school official, or corrections officer are all factors that are considered.
Experienced Assault Defense
Your Minneapolis criminal defense attorney is going to provide you with a strategic offense that is designed to obtain the best possible result. Sometimes that leads to dismissal of the charges, acquittal, or a reduction of the charges. The goal is to seek out the best conclusion and pursue it so you have an avenue to move on with your life much sooner than you would otherwise.
You will find that your attorney will guide you through the legal process, presenting you with options so you can make the best possible decisions. Aside from having the best possible defense, having the support you need is a reason why you should have an experienced criminal attorney by your side every step of the way.
Contact A Minneapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer
Assault offenses are taken very seriously in Minnesota, which is why they are prosecuted aggressively. With an even more aggressive and dedicated defense, you can obtain the best possible outcome in your case. To learn more about your rights and options, call the Olson Law Firm at 612-816-2322 to schedule a free consultation.