Annapolis and Baltimore Assault Attorney
A conviction on assault charges can affect you for the rest of your life. Every time you apply for a job, you will have to answer "yes" if you are asked whether you have been arrested or convicted of a crime. In today's world, few employers would want to hire someone who has been convicted of assault.
My name is Jim Crawford. For the past 18 years, I have defended people charged with assault and other violent crimes. I serve clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Catonsville, Annapolis and Bel Air.
Assault Charges
Here are examples of different types of cases I handle:
- Second-degree assault: Assault that causes physical injury to another person. Second-degree assault is a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
- First-degree assault: Assault that causes serious physical injury. First-degree assault is a felony, punishable by up to 25 years in prison.
- Child discipline charges: Many times, an attempt to discipline a minor can turn into serious criminal charges. Use of an alleged weapon such as a hanger, belt, stick or other item can be used as evidence against you showing intent. The Maryland Department of Human Services or Child Protective Services usually becomes involved and works with the state attorney's office. It is important to know that anything communicated to that office will be used against you in court.
- Shaken baby syndrome: An infant who has "retinal damage" is sometimes viewed as a shaken baby victim. The infant may survive or be seriously injured. Under Maryland law, the Department of Human Services may become involved in a case even if there are no actual criminal charges pending. Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) matters may turn into criminal matters.
- Assault charges can be enhanced if you used a gun or other weapon.
- Assault related to a Sex Offense charge- Many times the Prosecuting Attorney will add an additional charge of 2nd Degree Assault based on an alleged improper or unwanting touching.
Defenses in Assault Cases
Police investigating an assault case are not necessarily interested in who started the fight. If you injure another person in an altercation, you can be charged with assault even if the other person swung first. However, there are defenses:
- You did not knowingly or purposely cause the injury.
- You were defending yourself or another.
- Did you have the ability to retreat?
- Who had witnesses? Are they credible?
- Did any party file Protective Orders?
- The Department of "Social Services or Child Advocacy may play a part in the prosecution if a child is involved.
My reputation as an aggressive advocate for my clients lets prosecutors know that if they don't treat you fairly, they will face an experienced trial lawyer in court. It is important to gather all evidence, including witness statements, as soon as possible. Our legal team knows how to handle these situations and we will fight to make this situation right for you.
Contact Me
To protect your future, contact me, Maryland assault and battery charges attorney Jim Crawford, before you talk to police or anyone else. I am available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I offer a free initial consultation. To contact me, call 443-701-4525 or 866-635-0623.
