Like other states, Washington takes assault crimes seriously. Those convicted of an assault-related offense, such as assault in the first, second, or third degree, may face penalties like jail or prison sentences, costly fines, and other restrictions on their freedom and future. If you or a loved one is facing an assault charge (such as an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge), your best bet is to contact a skilled and experienced Camas criminal defense lawyer right away to discuss your legal rights and options. Together, you can identify the most strategic path forward that keeps your future as bright as possible. Let’s take a look at how Washington defines assault, the potential penalties for these offenses, and some defense strategies you can use to maximize your chances of securing a favorable outcome.
Understanding Assault Crimes in Washington State
First, it’s important to understand how Washington laws define assault crimes. At its core, assault involves the intentional infliction of harm upon another person. Washington recognizes four degrees of assault offenses, with the statute for assault in the first-degree reading as follows: “(1) A person is guilty of assault in the first degree if he or she, with intent to inflict great bodily harm: (a) Assaults another with a firearm or any deadly weapon or by any force or means likely to produce great bodily harm or death.” While there are other circumstances that could constitute assault in the first degree – the most common form of assault in the first degree involves the intentional infliction of physical harm using a firearm or deadly weapon. Instances involving less severe elements can lead to other charges, such as assault in the second, third, or fourth degree.
Penalties for Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon Crimes
Assault in the first degree is a class A felony offense. If convicted of a class A felony, the defendant can face penalties like life imprisonment, up to $50,000 in fines, and other severe restrictions to their freedom and future. This also counts as a “strike” in Washington’s current “three strikes” legislation, where a 3rd strikes can carry a term of life in prison. Even convictions for lesser offenses, such as assault in the third degree (a class C felony) can carry serious penalties, like up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Additionally, if a deadly weapon is involved in the alleged crime, prosecutors may seek sentence enhancements that could add additional time to any sentence you receive. Since the potential consequences of an assault conviction are so significant, it’s essential to enlist the help of a highly qualified and trusted Camas criminal defense lawyer to ensure that your best interests and legal rights remain protected at every turn.
Defensive Strategies for Assault Charges in Washington
So, can aggravated assault with a deadly weapon be dropped? Depending on the circumstances of the incident, your defense lawyer may be able to negotiate reduced charges or even provide compelling evidence that the charges should be dropped. In some cases, claiming that you acted in self-defense may serve as a valid defense strategy for someone charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. No matter what the specifics of your situation may be, it’s highly recommended that you seek the counsel of an experienced and knowledgeable Camas criminal defense lawyer to ensure that your legal rights remain intact at every opportunity.
As one of the most experienced criminal defense attorneys in Clark County and Skamania County, attorney Vern McCray has the necessary skills and proven track record to defend your legal rights. Our firm is one of the few in the greater Vancouver area, who has achieved jury acquittals on assault, as well as special self-defense verdicts. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in the greater Vancouver area, call The Vern McCray Law Firm, PLLC, right away at (360) 834-6262 to get started with a highly qualified and trusted criminal defense lawyer.
