Assault
Because assault is considered a violent crime in the state of Alabama, a conviction can carry some of the harshest penalties. Assault convictions impact not just your present freedom but also all of your future endeavors. At Bennett Law, we recognize how significantly these charges can impact your life. We are dedicated to finding a way to secure your future and will stand passionately for your rights.
Assault Crimes Attorney in Birmingham, AL
Assault Defense in Alabama
Assault charges come in many forms in Alabama, from inflicting serious physical injury on another person, to reckless endangerment, to simply threatening physical violence. Actual physical contact is not required for an assault conviction, as assault can be interpreted to mean any act that would put a reasonable person in fear for their safety.
Violent crimes such as assault tend to come with harsh sentencing. First-time simple assault convictions may not result in prison time, but most convictions related to assault do. That’s why you need skilled, accessible legal counsel to help you navigate the process.
When to Hire an Attorney for Assault
Because assault charges come with serious consequences for your future employment, housing, education, and financial opportunities, you should hire an attorney straight away if you have been arrested or are under investigation. At Bennett Law, we will look at every possible angle of your case to build a strong defense using the latest tools and resources to passionately protect your rights.
After thoroughly analyzing the evidence in your situation, the criminal defense attorney of Birmingham, AL Ansley Platt Bennett will use her strategic insights and fierce negotiating skills to determine a strong course of action. She can help you examine your options and identify any potential mitigating factors, such as:
Frequently Asked Questions About Assault in Alabama
Self-defense is a complex issue that requires a thorough understanding of the law. Though each case is entirely unique, in general, you must be able to show the following to qualify for self-defense:
- Someone used or threatened to imminently use unlawful physical force against you
- You had a genuine perceived fear of harm with a reasonable basis
- There was no harm or provocation on your part
- There was no reasonable chance of retreating or escaping the situation
At Bennett Law, we will help you examine all of your options, thoroughly investigate your situation, and stage the strongest possible defense we can.
There is a range of assault charges in Alabama that carry different classifications. First- and second-degree assault are felonies, while third-degree assault is a misdemeanor. Some related charges, such as menacing, reckless endangerment, and criminal coercion, are misdemeanors. Others, such as compelling streetgang membership or criminal use of a defense spray, are Class C felonies.
At Bennett Law, we will fight to have your charges reduced or dismissed if at all possible. Contact us today to discuss the details of your case!
The term “assault” is used somewhat broadly in Alabama law, covering both physical violence and threats of physical harm. A brief, summary overview of assault charges is provided below, with links to more detailed information in the Alabama Criminal Code:
- Assault in the First Degree: severely injuring a person with the use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument and with intent to cause serious bodily injury or disfigurement. Can also include engaging in conduct that creates a grave risk of death to another person and therefore causes serious physical injury, including driving under the influence.
- Assault in the Second Degree: causing severe physical injury to a person with the intent to do so, with or without a firearm. Can also include physically harming a police officer, correctional officer, emergency medical personnel, utility worker, teacher, health care worker, or firefighter.
- Assault in the Third Degree: causing any physical injury to a person with the intent to do so. Can also include recklessly causing physical injury to another person, causing physical injury with a firearm by way of criminal negligence, or causing injury with the intent to prevent a peace officer from performing a lawful duty.
You’ll notice that intent plays an important role in any assault case. At Bennett Law, we will listen to your story and craft a strong defense for your case, no matter the situation.
Don’t Wait: Contact Bennett Law Today
If you have been arrested, contacted by law enforcement, or are under investigation for any crime of assault in Alabama, contact Bennett Law for a free consultation. We take the time to listen, help you understand your options, and take decisive action in your case. Call now to make Bennett Law your advocate.