What Happens When You Get An Assault Charge?

There are many different types of assault so the answer to this question can be quite broad and vary from each situation. Depending on the type of assault you were charged with and the severity, the processes and outcomes can be different and can result in jail time, heavy fines, mandatory counseling, and a criminal record.

But if you hire a skilled attorney that is well-versed in the details of Washington state law your results can be much better than without one.

Types of Assault Charges

Many people do not realize that an assault can occur even where no physical harm takes place. A simple push can land you in jail. Depending on the situation and severity there is a risk for felony charges.

In Washington, Assault 4 can be any of the following. Note that only one of these involves actual physical touching:

An intentional touching of another that is either unwanted or offensive, regardless of if any bodily injury has occurred.
An unlawful act performed with the intent to harm another physically, but failing to accomplish that act – i.e., a swing and a miss.
Any physical action that is intended to place the other person in reasonable fear of imminent harm, and which does so – i.e., threatened immediate harm.

Domestic Violence

“Domestic violence” means that the criminal charge was done by one family or household member against another, or against a person in a current or former dating relationship. People often call the police looking for help to calm down an intense situation, not knowing that police arrive at your house looking for evidence of a crime. If an officer finds probable cause that a crime was committed, they are required by law to arrest you and take you to jail, even when minimal conduct is alleged.

We understand that the police often do not get the full picture before deciding to arrest. We take the time to listen to your case and present a defense for you.

Domestic violence accusations can be taxing and the consequences significant. From the beginning of the case, the judge has the power to impose a no-contact order between you and the alleged victim. If you two live together, this may mean that you must vacate your residence. There are special exceptions, and your lawyer should know how to handle the matter appropriately.

Domestic Violence Assault can result in particularly dire penalties.

The judge can order you to do:

Jail time
Counseling and treatment
Loss of firearm rights
A criminal record
No contact order
Pay court costs

Local Defense Attorney

When your reputation and rights are at stake, hire a lawyer with the expertise required in defending domestic violence accusations. We have handled thousands of criminal cases, including domestic violence assault, harassment, trespass, malicious mischief, violation of a no-contact order, and many more. We understand how judges, prosecutors, and police approach these cases. We come up with a handcrafted action plan to best defend your domestic violence case.

If you have a domestic violence assault accusation, hire an experienced domestic violence lawyer. The consultation is free.

Can Assault Charges Be Dropped?

It is possible to have assault charges dropped through a variety of means. Keeping in mind that every case is different, generally speaking, if the evidence does not support the charge, winning at trial, through the product of skilled negotiation, or the successful completion of a diversion program are all ways of having assault charges dropped.

Do Assault Charges Stay On Your Record?

If convicted of an assault charge, it will stay on your record until you get it vacated or expunged from your criminal record. Talk to us today to see how we can fight your charge, or vacate it in the case of conviction.

Is An Assault Charge A Felony?

Depending on the severity of the assault, there is the possibility of a felony charge. Most commonly, however, assaults are charged as misdemeanors.

Can You Go To Jail For First Time Assault?

Jail time for a first-time assault is possible depending on the specific facts and circumstances of your case. For example, Domestic Violence assaults typically result in the officer taking you directly to jail before you see the judge.