Defending Clients with Skill, Compassion, and Honesty
Being arrested for an aggravated assault charge can be terrifying. Understanding the charges brought against you and having excellent legal counsel to defend yourself against them is crucial. Aggravated assault laws in Virginia are complex and cover a wide range of actions, some of which may result in a felony conviction.
Whether you are facing serious charges or a simple misdemeanor, a conviction for aggravated assault can go on your permanent criminal record and seriously impact your freedom and ability to live your life. A conviction on your record can severely affect your social and professional life. You may lose your job, professional license, and even custody of your children. However, being charged with a crime is not the same as being convicted, and in Virginia, you may be able to appeal a conviction that is unfair or based on judicial error.
To get the best protection possible, you should seek out an aggravated assault attorney with a great deal of experience. At Ashwell & Ashwell, our founding attorneys have experience as a judge and a prosecutor, giving our team unique insights that would not be available at another criminal defense firm. We promise to leverage this knowledge and experience to get you the most favorable result possible, even if it means appealing your case. Call our highly skilled legal team now to discuss your options in a free consultation at 540-386-1277.
How is Aggravated Assault Defined in Virginia?
Aggravated assault laws are highly complex and involve many different factors that could affect the outcome of your case, such as whether you were in possession of a deadly weapon or were committing another crime while engaging in assault. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand your charges and develop a solid defense to get your sentencing lowered or your case dismissed.
Virginia laws define aggravated assault as a crime where a person intends to cause severe harm against someone else, such as with a deadly weapon. Making threats against an officer of the peace, such as a police officer, firefighter, or emergency responder, may also be considered aggravated assault and could carry even harsher penalties.
Some examples of aggravated assault include:
- Assault with a firearm or another deadly weapon
- Poisoning
- Assault with explosives or an explosive device
- Assault causing disfigurement, mutilation, or serious bodily injury
- Assault while committing a felony
- Assault with the intent to kill
If you have been accused of aggravated assault, it is critical for you to hire a criminal defense lawyer immediately to get the protection and defense you need. An aggravated assault lawyer can advise you on what your charges mean and how to handle yourself during the investigation. Call our legal team today to learn more about what aggravated assault means under Virginia law and get the legal counsel and representation you deserve.
What Penalties Could I Face for an Aggravated Assault Conviction?
The penalties you face as a result of your aggravated assault conviction may vary depending on the circumstances of your case. Some factors that could affect your conviction and sentencing include:
- Hate crime charges, which could enhance the sentencing
- Assault or battery on a household member, also known as domestic violence
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Assault while committing a robbery, kidnapping, or other felony
- Assault against a child
Aggravated assault convictions may sometimes result in minor sentencing, such as for a misdemeanor. However, in Virginia, any assault crime can lead to a fine of up to $2,500 unless the crime results in malicious wounding, which could get you up to $100,000 in fines. Misdemeanor charges may also result in jail time, usually up to 12 months.
However, if you are charged with a violent felony, you could face much more severe consequences, such as up to five years in prison. You may also face restrictions, such as being unable to own a weapon or obtain a professional license. Please realize that no matter how simple your charges seem, they could dramatically impact your future. Call our team of attorneys today to see if we can dismiss your charges and protect your freedom.
How Can I Defend Myself Against My Aggravated Assault Charges?
Facing criminal charges can feel frustrating and hopeless. However, there are several ways you could fight your aggravated assault charges, including:
- Self-defense, meaning you were the victim of the other person’s assault
- Mistaken identity, or that you were not the person who committed the crime in question
- Defense of another person
- Acting under duress, meaning you were coerced into performing the act under threat of harm
- Lack of intent
Defending yourself in court is not recommended because of the complexity of aggravated assault laws and the risks involved if you get a negative outcome. Please contact an experienced aggravated assault lawyer immediately for help navigating the legal process and protecting your rights.
Should You Hire Our Aggravated Assault Attorneys?
When you are accused of a violent crime like aggravated assault, it is essential to choose a team of attorneys who will respect you and communicate clearly with you throughout your case. Our dedicated criminal defense lawyers promise to use all of our energy and talent to investigate your case and uncover evidence that introduces doubt into the prosecution’s argument. Our leading attorneys have spent time as both a judge and a prosecutor, so we know what to expect and how to combat the other side’s most strenuous efforts.
Our legal team offers aggressive criminal defense services that get positive results for our many clients, many times without ever going to trial. You can count on our knowledge and experience when seeking favorable results in your aggravated assault case. We offer affordable rates and free consultations, so you have nothing to lose by contacting our law firm immediately. Call now at 540-386-1277 to schedule your free, confidential case review.
