Criminal Assault in Hoover

In Alabama, an assault occurs when an individual is injured as a direct result of someone else’s actions. A conviction for assault can have a long-lasting impact on someone’s life because it is a violent crime. Violent crime convictions can make it difficult, although not impossible, to re-enter the workforce and navigate child custody cases following a conviction because of negative stigmas. For this reason, it is critical to take the important steps of securing the best legal representation available when charged with a violent crime to increase the chances of a favorable outcome. If you have been charged with assault, contact an experienced defense attorney to protect your best interests. Read on to learn more about how a knowledgeable Hoover assault lawyer can build a defense strategy to help make a difference in your case.

There are multiple methods by which someone can commit first-degree assault, but under each circumstance, another party is seriously injured as a result of the defendant’s actions. The penalty for first-degree assault includes two to 20 years of imprisonment, fines up to $30,000, or both. When an individual intentionally causes serious injury to another using a dangerous object or a deadly weapon, it constitutes first-degree assault. When the intent of an assault is to disfigure, amputate, disable, or cause permanent injury to the other party, that action also constitutes first-degree assault.

Engaging in reckless acts that create a serious risk of death constitutes first-degree assault as long as the circumstances establish the defendant’s extreme indifference to the danger of others’ lives. Additionally, seriously injuring someone while committing another felony or in flight from another felony also constitutes first-degree assault. Causing serious injury to another in a vehicle while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, another controlled substance, or a combination thereof also rises to first-degree assault. To defend against such a charge, an individual should contact a skilled defense attorney immediately.

When an individual intends to and causes serious injury to another, that act constitutes second-degree assault. The individual’s injury can be caused by the intentional or reckless use of a deadly weapon or a dangerous object. However, the law does not require that a deadly weapon or dangerous object be used to meet the threshold for second-degree assault. If a corrections officer, a peace worker, or firefighter was assaulted while attempting to perform a lawful duty, that act constitutes second-degree assault. Similarly, if the attacked individual is an educator that was assaulted while performing a job duty, the assault rises to second degree. Moreover, attacking a healthcare employee with intent to cause physical injury or engaging in acts that would cause unconsciousness, stupor, or physical and mental impairment for reasons that are not medically lawful constitutes second-degree assault.

The penalties for second-degree assault include fines up to $15,000 and at least 12 months and one day of incarceration, but no more than 10 years of imprisonment. As established by the penalties, assault is a serious offense which can result in extensive criminal consequences. The societal consequences that follow a criminal conviction can be longer lasting. To best understand such nuances, an individual should not hesitate before consulting with a professional Hoover assault lawyer.

If you have been charged with assault in Jefferson or Shelby County, it is imperative that you contact a skilled Hoover assault lawyer to ensure that you protect yourself. A qualified Hoover assault lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and act as an aggressive advocate for your defense. Reach out to a weathered Hoover assault lawyer today to schedule your initial consultation.