Hampton, VA Assault Lawyer

Are you facing an assault charge?  If so, you don’t have to deal with it on your own.  Assault charges are very serious, and an assault conviction on your record can have significant consequences. A Hampton, VA assault lawyer can evaluate your case, build a strong defense, and fight an assault charge for you.

Cases involving assault are often complex. If you face an assault charge without the help of a Hampton, VA assault attorney, it could lead to a conviction that could land you in jail.  Even first time misdemeanors in Hampton, VA, Virginia can result in heavy fines and incarceration. Call and schedule a consultation with a Hampton criminal defense attorney today.

Assault Charges in Virginia

As in many states, Virginia assault and battery crimes are not covered in separate statutes.  This means that the common law terms “assault” and “battery” are combined and treated under the same statue.  Criminal cases that involve assault can be very complicated and navigating the court system on these issues requires extensive knowledge of the law.  Speaking with a Hampton, VA assault attorney can help you understand the potential consequences of your situation.

Whether an assault charge is a misdemeanor or felony depends on the relevant facts of the case.  Generally speaking, if the person assaulted sustained bodily injury, the charge is considered a felony.  Whereas, a simple assault and battery case that involves no bodily harm is a misdemeanor.  Crimes that involve weapons can be escalated to a felony crime. Another factor that can cause a charge to be escalated is whether the person has a prior criminal record, particularly if the prior convictions are assault-related or similar to the charge at hand.

Felony Assault Charges

In Virginia, there are several classes of felony assault. Section 18.2-57 of the Virginia criminal code addresses most assault charges. However, a few assault-related crimes, such as domestic assault, have separate statutes. Assault charges that result in felony convictions include the following:

  • Assault with a deadly weapon
  • Aggravated assault
  • Assault that causes substantial bodily injury
  • Aggravated malicious wounding
  • Malicious bodily injury
  • Domestic Assault and Battery with prior assault-related convictions
  • Reckless endangerment (DUIs can be accompanied with this assault charge)

Assault Penalties in Hampton, VA

Keep in mind that a simple misdemeanor assault charge is still punishable by up to 12 months in jail in addition to fines.  A felony charge can land a person in prison for 20 years or even life in some cases. These lengthy sentences can include fines of up to $100,000.  Unlike domestic assault cases, there is no first offender or diversion program available for simple assault. Regardless of the type or degree of the assault charge you face, your first step in building a strong defense is to contact an assault lawyer familiar with the Hampton, VA court system.

Hire a Hampton, VA Assault Lawyer Today

If you are faced with an assault charge, don’t take any chances with your defense. The consequences can be severe and can last for a long time. Regardless of the type of assault charge, our experienced and well-qualified Hampton, VA assault lawyers will take the necessary time to thoroughly understand your case and create a solid, aggressive defense. Additionally, our attorneys have the courtroom experience necessary to represent you in court.  Do not wait to take action. You should talk to one of our Hampton, VA assault lawyers today to schedule your free, confidential consultation.