Assault Defense Attorneys in Chestertown, MD, Committed to Your Defense in Kent County and Throughout Maryland
Facing assault charges in Chestertown? Our Chestertown assault lawyers are here to help.
Maybe what started as a disagreement escalated, or you were defending yourself. The consequences are serious:
- You could face prison time.
- Your reputation in our small community is at stake.
- You might face restraining orders and civil lawsuits.
Our team knows the legal process and prosecutors. We've helped many local residents successfully fight assault charges.
Time is critical in your defense. Contact us today to discuss your assault case.
Types of Assault Charges in Chestertown
In Maryland, assault isn't just about throwing a punch. The law splits assault into two types, and understanding which one you're facing is the first step toward building your defense.
First Degree Assault
First-degree assault happens when someone causes or tries to cause serious physical injury to another person. First-degree assault is the more serious charge and includes:
- Using a gun, knife, or other dangerous weapon
- Hitting someone so hard they need surgery or hospital care
- Breaking someone's bones
- Attacking someone with the clear intent to cause major harm
For example, if you got into a bar fight on the High Street and hit someone with a bottle, that could be a first-degree assault. Or if you threatened a neighbor with a knife during a heated argument, prosecutors might charge you with first-degree assault.
Second Degree Assault
Second-degree assault is more common in Chestertown. Second-degree assault involves:
- Any unwanted physical contact that might cause injury
- Threatening to hurt someone in a way that makes them fear immediate harm
- Shoving, slapping, or punching another person
Maybe you pushed someone during an argument at an event. Or perhaps you got into a heated exchange with a family member that turned physical. These situations often lead to second-degree assault charges in Kent County.
Our Chestertown assault lawyers handle both types of assault cases.
Punishment for Committing Assault in Chestertown
The consequences of an assault conviction can change your life permanently.
First Degree Assault Penalties
If convicted of first-degree assault in Chestertown, you can face:
- Up to 25 years in prison
Second Degree Assault Penalties
While less severe than first-degree charges, second-degree assault still carries stiff penalties:
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Fines up to $2,500
Collateral consequences
- A criminal record
- Loss of gun rights
- Difficulty finding employment
- Potential loss of professional licenses
- Challenges renting an apartment
Maryland takes assault charges seriously, and so should you. Discuss your case with our assault defense attorneys in Chestertown, MD, before these penalties become your reality.
How Our Chestertown Assault Lawyer Can Help You Fight Assault Charges
The defense strategies we use depend on the specific details of your assault case. After reviewing the police reports, witness statements, and any video evidence, we might build your defense around.
Here are some defenses that might be useful to defend your assault case:
Self-Defense
If someone is threatening or attacking you, you have the right to protect yourself. We can work to show that your actions were reasonable, given the danger you faced.
For example, if someone cornered you outside a restaurant and threatened to hurt you, your decision to push them away could be justified self-defense, not assault.
Consent
In some situations, both parties agree to physical contact. This often applies in sporting events or certain medical procedures. If the other person consented to the contact, it might not be assault.
Lack of Intent
Assault requires intent. If the contact was accidental, our assault defense attorneys in Chestertown, MD, can argue you never meant to cause harm. Maybe you bumped into someone in a crowded space, causing them to fall. That's not assault—it's an accident.
False Allegations
Unfortunately, people sometimes make false assault claims out of anger, jealousy, or to gain an advantage in another dispute. We thoroughly investigate the accuser's motives and look for inconsistencies in their story.
We've helped people who were wrongly accused by ex-partners and business associates.
Reflex Action
Sometimes, physical responses happen instinctively. If someone startled you and you reacted without thinking, that involuntary response shouldn't count as assault.
Discuss your assault case with us. Our Chestertown assault lawyers can help you identify the best defense strategy for your specific situation.
Why Trust Maronick Law LLC to Handle Your Assault Case in Chestertown
When your freedom and reputation are on the line, the lawyer you choose makes all the difference.
With over 80 years of combined experience, we fight for your future like it's our own. While other firms might push for a quick plea deal to wrap up your case, we dig deeper, challenge harder, and aim higher.
Proven Results
Our track record speaks for itself. We've helped hundreds of Chestertown residents facing assault charges:
- Reduced charges from felony to misdemeanor
- Secured dismissals
- Negotiated alternatives to jail time
Deep Roots in the Chestertown Legal Community
We have established strong working relationships throughout Kent County's judicial system over decades of practice. We understand the nuances of how Kent County courts operate:
- We know the local prosecutors' tendencies and negotiation styles.
- We're familiar with how judges react to assault evidence and testimony.
- We understand the community values that influence Kent County juries.
The local insight gives our clients a significant advantage that out-of-town attorneys simply cannot match.
When you come to us, you're our most important client, not just another case number. Our Chestertown assault lawyers are compassionate to help you and look beyond the obvious to find solutions.
Our teamwork has been recognized by:
- Avvo: Rating 10.0
- National Trial Lawyers: Top 100
- American Society of Legal Advocates: Maryland Top 40 Criminal Lawyer Under 40
Words from clients who faced similar situations:
“My name is Faith! I was charged with ASSAULT-SEC DEGREE, which I was frustrated by two other lawyers. I went to Google until I found the right lawyer.
I am here to testify, and I came out victorious on my case with the help of this lawyer without any stress. It is my privilege to recommend THE LAW OFFICE OF THOMAS J. MARONICK JR., LLC, as an excellent lawyer.” - Faith
Talk to us about your situation and let our assault defense attorneys in Chestertown, MD, help you put this difficult period behind.
Contact Our Chestertown Assault Lawyers at Maronick Law LLC Today for a Free Consultation
Assault cases in Maryland move quickly, and evidence crucial to your defense can disappear within days.
For help from assault lawyers in Chestertown, contact Maronick Law LLC online or call 443-551-2747 today.