Assault Charges Lawyer

Colorado Aggravated Assault Defense Including First and Second Degree Assault

Assault is defined as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person. This can also include causing another person to fear imminent bodily injury. Colorado law recognizes different degrees of assault, including first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and third-degree assault.

These charges can have severe consequences, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can impact your future job prospects and more. A conviction for any violent crime, which usually includes first degree assault, carries a mandatory prison sentence. It is important to defend these serious charges with the help of an experienced defense attorney.

I am attorney Christopher T. Braddock and I have been defending individuals throughout Colorado for more than 20 years. Facing assault charges can be an overwhelming and stressful experience, and I am here to guide you through every step of the process.

Types of Assault Charges

A variety of charges constitute assault, and a person can be charged with more than one. Some of the more common assault charges include:

• Crimes of passion.
• Aggravated assault.
• Assault with a deadly weapon.
• Domestic violence.
• Harassment.
• Simple assault.
• Vehicular assault.

Simple Assault vs. Aggravated Assault

While assault involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another person, aggravated assault involves causing serious bodily injury or using a deadly weapon during the assault.

Under Colorado law, aggravated assault is considered a more serious offense than simple assault and carries harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines. Additionally, aggravated assault charges may be classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances of the offense.

It’s important to note that the specific details of your case will impact the severity of the charges against you and the potential penalties you face. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side to help you understand the charges against you and build a strong defense tailored to your specific situation.

Denver, Colorado, Domestic Violence Lawyer

Defending against domestic assault can be challenging, particularly because the alleged injured party is often unsure of whether or not he or she wishes to file charges. If he or she alerts authorities to alleged domestic violence, however, prosecutors take over and can press charges even if the victim decides he or she doesn’t want the case to continue.

If you are facing a Colorado domestic violence charge, you need an experienced Denver, Colorado, domestic violence lawyer to mount an effective defense. As your attorney, I will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the incident, including interviewing friends and family of the couple to get the facts straight.

Penalties for Assault Charges

Assault charges in Colorado are taken very seriously and can have severe consequences. Even a simple assault charge can result in fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can impact your future job prospects. More serious charges, such as those involving a deadly weapon or domestic violence, can result in even harsher penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

Here is a breakdown of the potential penalties for each degree of assault:

• Third-degree assault: This is the least serious charge, typically involving causing bodily injury to another person. It is classified as a misdemeanor and can result in up to two years in county jail.
• Second-degree assault: This involves causing serious bodily injury to another person or causing bodily injury with a deadly weapon.  Second-degree assault can result in up to 16 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.
• First-degree assault: This is the most serious form of assault, involving causing serious bodily injury to another person with a deadly weapon or with intent to cause serious bodily injury, and can result in a sentence up to 32years in prison and a fine of up to $750,000.

Who Looks Out for the Defendant’s Rights? The Right Lawyer

Facing criminal charges alone can be very stressful. Often, the district attorney’s only priority is to convict and hand out the harshest possible punishments. Without experienced representation, you may be pressured into accepting an inappropriate plea bargain.

Remember, prosecutors aren’t there to ensure that you receive a fair trial or that your rights are protected. The only people concerned with your rights are yourself and your criminal defense attorney.

As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, I understand the seriousness of assault charges and the impact they can have on your life. That’s why I provide aggressive and comprehensive legal representation to clients facing assault charges. I can help you by:

• Assessing the evidence against you and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Building a strong defense tailored to your specific situation
• Exploring all available legal options and advocating for the best possible outcome
• Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties
• Representing you in court and fighting for your rights