Assault Defense Lawyer in Federal Way

Washington punishes assault and aggravated assault harshly, and you could be facing a significant amount of time in prison if you don’t hire an assault defense lawyer in Federal Way. They help you fight the charges and navigate the legal system so your life isn’t destroyed by this one moment.

Puget Law Group defends you from assault charges and strikes quickly to ensure that you have a strong case that is effective and gives you the support you need. A Federal Way criminal defense lawyer provides you with dedicated and knowledgeable service so you get a better outcome. With 150 years of combined experience, our team aggressively and skillfully fights for you when faced with assault charges.

Legal Representation is Essential When Facing Assault Charges

When you have been charged with assault, you need a knowledgeable assault defense attorney in Federal Way who can fiercely fight for you. Puget Law Group puts our clients first and makes sure you have an advocate who will protect your rights and make sure you have the opportunity to defend yourself from the prosecution’s charges.

A lawyer will provide the guidance you need when preparing for a criminal trial and knowing what to expect as your case progresses. Your lawyer will review your charges and help you determine how to plead. If your case is going to court, they will represent you and counsel you through all of the pre-trial procedures to make sure your best interests are protected.

Your lawyer will also present your defense in court and rebut the prosecution’s arguments so they can get your charges reduced or dismissed. They can also help you appeal a decision if necessary. Regardless of what you require during your case, your lawyer will be by your side fighting for you.

Understanding the Various Degrees of Assault in Federal Way, WA

Assault involves intentionally causing physical harm to another person. It can encompass a wide variety of actions and vary in severity. Washington has four different degrees of assault, which can range from a misdemeanor to a felony offense. Going from least to most severe, the following categories of assault in Washington include:

• Assault in the fourth degree (RCW 9A.36.041): When a person intentionally causes harm to another person. This category may also include domestic violence against partners, spouses, or other family members.
• Assault in the third degree (RCW 9A.36.031): Causing intentional bodily harm to law enforcement, court personnel, transit personnel, a school bus driver, firefighter, or healthcare professional. Harm may include the use of a weapon.
• Assault in the second degree (RCW 9A.36.021): Intentional actions that cause significant harm to another person or unborn child, involve a deadly weapon, intentionally expose an individual to a toxic substance, or torture, strangle, or suffocate another person.
• Assault in the first degree (RCW 9A.36.011): Causing severe intentional harm or death through the use of a deadly weapon, toxic substance, or poison, or passing HIV to vulnerable adults or children.

Assault in the second, third, and first degrees may be considered aggravated assault because of the increased severity and use of a deadly weapon. These offenses generally are subject to more serious penalties in Washington and could result in a greater loss of freedom. Lawyers for aggravated assault can help you fight these charges and preserve maximum freedom.

Assault and Aggravated Assault Have Considerable Penalties in Washington

Assault is considered a serious offense and can be subject to harsh punishments. Assault may be considered a gross misdemeanor offense and is eligible for up to a year in jail and steep fines. However, aggravated assault offenses are considered felonies. Given the varying degrees of severity for these crimes, the penalties may vary and require the help of an aggravated assault defense attorney.

Per the most recent Washington state adult sentencing guidelines manual, maximum penalties are outlined. Assault in the third degree (Class C felony) is subject to up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. For assault in the second degree (Class B felony), up to 10 years in prison and $20,000 in fines may be imposed. Assault in the first degree (Class A felony) is subject to life in prison and up to $50,000 in fines.

Additionally, victims could file a restraining order with the courts against you. Any violation of these orders could also increase the penalties you may receive. A lawyer can help you understand the parameters of an order and walk you through how to fight a protection order in Washington state.

Defenses That Can Be Used in an Assault Case in Federal Way

To avoid penalties for assault, you need to consult a Federal Way assault defense lawyer who can skillfully defend you against charges. They will investigate the allegations against you and carefully review the prosecution’s evidence so that they can determine the right defense strategy for your case. Your lawyer will strengthen your case through evidence and by leveraging the opposition’s weaknesses.

Depending on your circumstances, your lawyer may use defenses such as defense of self, others, or property, duress, lack of intent to cause harm, and mistaken identity. These defenses can be further tailored to the unique aspects of your situation so that you can be confident that you will receive a better outcome in your case.

Your lawyer will also evaluate your case to determine if there are any mitigating factors that they may incorporate into your defense. These factors provide additional context that can result in lesser charges or sentencing. According to RCW 9.94A.535, some common mitigating factors include an attempt to make restitution, remorse, duress, and more.

Hire an Assault Defense Attorney in Federal Way From Puget Law Group Today

Puget Law Group knows how serious assault charges are and advocates for your legal rights and a better outcome. We prioritize your case and work diligently to build a defense that will effectively combat the prosecution’s case against you.

When you need a Federal Way assault defense attorney, we are just a phone call away. Schedule a free consultation with our team today.