Puyallup Assault Defense Lawyer

Some of the most common criminal charges that defendants face are for assault. They may also be some of the most serious charges. If you or someone you know is facing assault charges, contact a criminal defense lawyer for help immediately.

Assault charges vary significantly based on the facts and circumstances of the alleged crime. For example, assault in the first degree may be charged as a Class A felony while assault in the fourth degree is often a gross misdemeanor. It may be possible to fight your charges and avoid a conviction. It might be better to negotiate a plea deal in which prosecutors reduce your charges in exchange for a guilty plea. You should discuss all your defense options with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact our assault defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Smith & White by calling (253) 203-1645 and ask our legal team for a private initial case review.

How Can Someone Be Charged with Assault in Puyallup?

Assault charges vary significantly based on the circumstances of the case. Penalties will also vary with the grading of the charges. Our assault defense lawyers will tailor your defense to your specific charges.

First Degree

Assault in the first degree is an extremely serious offense. You may be charged if you have the intent to inflict great bodily harm and assault someone with a firearm, a deadly weapon, or any means of force likely to cause great bodily harm. You may also be charged for allegedly transmitting the HIV virus to a child or vulnerable adult, or for administering a poison to someone.

Assault in the first degree may be charged as a Class A felony.

Second Degree

Assault in the second degree is somewhat less severe and may be charged under circumstances not amounting to assault in the first degree.

Specifically, you may be charged for the following:

• Intentionally assaulting another person and recklessly inflicting substantial bodily harm.
• Intentionally and unlawfully causing substantial bodily harm to an unborn child by harming the mother.
• Assaulting someone using a deadly weapon.
• Administering a poison to someone with the intent to cause bodily harm.
• Assaulting someone when attempting to commit a felony.
• Knowingly inflicting pain equivalent to torture.
• Assaulting someone by strangulation or suffocation.

Assault in the second degree may be charged as a Class B felony unless it is sexually motivated. In that case, it may be a Class A felony.

Third Degree

Assault in the third degree may be charged under a wide variety of circumstances.

You may be charged if you assault law enforcement officers during an arrest, transit operators, school bus drivers, firefighters, healthcare workers, or judicial officers. You may also be charged for using a weapon to cause bodily harm with criminal negligence, or causing bodily harm that comes with significant pain for an extended period of time, causing substantial suffering.

Assault in the third degree may be charged as a Class C felony.

Fourth Degree

Assault in the fourth degree is a sort of catch-all charge for any form of assault that does not meet the criteria to be charged as assault in the first, second, or third degree. It is charged as a gross misdemeanor unless it involves domestic violence, where it may be charged as a Class C felony.

FAQs About Assault Charges in Puyallup

Can I Go to Jail for Assault in Puyallup?

Yes, if you are convicted. Assault charges generally carry the possibility of jail time, although the exact sentence may vary based on the offense’s grading and any discretionary sentencing options the judge may have.

What Do I Do if I am Arrested for Assault?

If you are arrested for assault, focus on contacting an attorney for help as your earliest opportunity. You will likely be taken to the police station for booking and to be detained while prosecutors determine whether to press charges. Demand to call your lawyer as soon as you can.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Assault Charges?

Yes. Assault is a violent crime and may carry serious penalties. On top of that, you may have a serious charge – possibly a felony- on your criminal record if you are convicted. An attorney can help you put up the best defense possible and hopefully avoid a conviction.

Can I Secure Bail if I am Charged with Assault?

Yes, it is possible to secure bail when you are charged with assault, although bail is not guaranteed. All criminal defendants have a right to a bail hearing, and a judge may impose certain restrictions on your heavier as part of their bail. In more serious cases where a defendant is considered a flight risk or a threat to their community, a judge could deny bail.

What if I am Charged with Assault but the Other Person Attacked Me First?

It may be possible to claim self-defense if you are charged with assault. This is not uncommon, as many assault cases actually stem from disputes or arguments that suddenly turn violent, and one person must defend themselves from the other. Self-defense may be a complete defense that negates criminal liability.

Should I Accept a Plea Bargain in an Assault Case?

Whether you accept a plea bargain is entirely up to you, and you should review any plea offers with your attorney before accepting or rejecting them. If we believe the evidence is too strong to overcome and that a conviction is likely, a plea bargain may be a good idea, as it could help you avoid harsher penalties in favor of more lenient charges.

What Happens if Assault Charges Are Dropped or Dismissed?

When charges are dropped, it means the prosecutors chose to withdraw them or not pursue them at this time. If charges are dismissed, it means the court throws out the case, possibly for lack of evidence or other reasons. When charges are dropped or dismissed, they can be refiled if prosecutors obtain additional evidence and the statute of limitations has not run out. However, if charges are dismissed with prejudice, they cannot be refiled.

When Do I Contact a Lawyer for Help with Assault Charges?

You should contact a lawyer for help as soon as possible after being arrested. Ideally, you should call a lawyer before you answer questions from the police or attend your first hearing. However, you can call a lawyer for help even earlier. You might suspect that you will be arrested soon, and you should call a lawyer who can help you prepare for the arrest and what comes after.

Review your Case with Our Puyallup Assault Defense Lawyers

Contact our assault defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Smith & White by calling (253) 203-1645 and ask our legal team for a private initial case review.