Clarksburg, MD Assault Defense Lawyer

Reliable Attorney Handling Assault Charges in Clarksburg, Maryland

Assault might not seem like a major offense next to other crimes like drug distribution or manslaughter, but a conviction can still carry lasting consequences. In some cases, assault may even be charged as a felony, resulting in stricter prosecution and harsher sentencing. If you have been accused of assault, a Clarksburg, Maryland criminal defense lawyer can advocate for your rights in court.

At The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC., we have years of experience representing clients accused of violent crimes and other serious criminal violations. Attorney Robert Demirji has handled thousands of cases across his career, so you can rely on our firm to provide you with strong counsel and an aggressive defense.

What Acts Are Defined as Assault in Maryland?

Assault in Maryland encompasses a range of behaviors that put another person in fear of imminent physical harm or involve unwanted physical contact. Simple assault occurs when someone intentionally threatens another with force or actually makes non-consensual physical contact without causing serious injury. This can include actions such as raising a fist in a threatening manner, spitting on someone, or shoving another person.

When an act of assault threatens to cause serious bodily harm, charges may be elevated to a more serious level. The line between misdemeanors and felonies often depends on the severity of injury, the use of a weapon, and the defendant's intent.

Will I Go to Jail for an Assault Charge?

Even in the least severe instances of assault, jail time remains a realistic possibility upon conviction. Misdemeanor cases of assault in the second degree are punishable by up to a decade in prison, as well as fines of up to $2,500. Note that if the alleged victim was a first responder or police officer carrying out their official duties, the maximum fine could be increased to $5,000.

If the alleged act of assault involves a weapon or significant bodily harm, the charge will be escalated to first-degree assault, a felony carrying up to 25 years in prison for a conviction. Even if no physical contact is made, the threat of serious bodily harm (such as pointing a gun at someone) can trigger first-degree assault charges. Similarly, attempting to, but failing to cause serious injury to another person will also result in first-degree assault charges.

Our attorney will assess the details of the incident—such as the nature of any injuries, witness statements, and evidence of self-defense—and advise you of what to expect in court.

Legal Defenses Against Assault in Clarksburg, MD

Mounting a successful defense in an assault case often hinges on challenging one or more elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defenses include:

• Self-defense or defense of others, where the use of force was reasonable under the circumstances
• Lack of intent, demonstrating the contact was accidental or the threat was not genuine
• Consent, in contexts where contact was agreed upon (such as sports or martial arts training)
• Defense of property, when force was used to prevent trespass or theft without excessive harm
• Insufficient evidence, by highlighting inconsistencies in witness accounts or gaps in physical proof

Each case is unique. Evidence such as surveillance footage, medical records, and witness testimony can be pivotal in disproving the prosecution's version of events. Our attorney will scrutinize police reports, question the reliability of witnesses, and seek to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.

Meet With a Clarksburg Assault Defense Attorney

Facing an assault charge can be overwhelming, but The Law Offices of Gerstenfield & Demirji, PC. can go over the details of your case with you and discuss realistic defense strategies to protect your future. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 301-589-9500 or contact our Clarksburg, MD assault defense lawyer.