Chicago and Dallas/Ft. Worth Assault Lawyers
Assault is one of the most serious crimes a person can be accused of, but it is important to keep in mind there are different levels of assault. Assault is an attempt to injure or frighten someone, resulting in immediate harm to the victim. In many cases, it is associated with battery. Some examples of assault include threatening others and an unlawful physical attack, with or without actual injury. If you have been charged with assault, it is important to keep in mind there are various levels of assault:
- First-Degree Felony - This is the most serious assault offense that can be committed. First-degree assault is defined as when an individual causes intention and severe harm to another person with a deadly weapon. In these instances, the injuries sustained by the victim carry a potential risk for death, disfigurement, or even permanent bodily damage. The person committing the crime is operating with “extreme indifference to the value of human life.” This is a felony crime.
- Second-Degree Felony - Second-degree assault occurs when someone intentionally injures another person, and it can also refer to a police officer sustaining an injury or being prohibited from doing his or her job. In some cases, intentional use of a deadly weapon is considered second-degree assault because it can recklessly cause injury to another person. Like first-degree assault, second degree assault is a felony that carries the same sentencing rules as first-degree assault.
- Misdemeanor Assault - This is the least severe of the three, but nonetheless a serious crime. Third-degree assault takes place when a person knowingly and negligently causes harm to another person by a deadly weapon. Other examples include threatening or harassing a police officer. This is a Class A misdemeanor that carries a possible sentence of up to 12 months in county jail. If the assault is against a police officer, pregnant woman, first responder, or at-risk adult, there is a mandatory minimum sentencing.
Understanding the ins and outs of the different levels of assault is important, whether you are the victim or the person accused of committing the crime. If you find yourself facing assault charges in Illinois or Texas, it is important you retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney from Toro Law Office. As a small law firm, we are dedicated to helping every single client who walks through our doors, regardless of the charges they face or their background. Fluent in Spanish and English, we understand that each case is unique and will do everything we can to defend you.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, there is a good chance it will go to civil or criminal court. If this is the case, you will need strong representation. To learn more about how to pursue an assault case, or if you are facing assault charges and would like to learn more about your options, contact experienced assault defense attorney Moises Briseño and Associates at Toro Law Office immediately to schedule a consultation to discuss your case.