The criminal statute for assault prohibits people from threatening the well-being of others. Intentionally causing harm to someone is a violation of the law. You may even face prosecution if you are accused of reckless behavior leading to another person’s injury.

When you face allegations of harming or threatening someone else, a Manchester assault lawyer should be your first call. The legal team at Ruane Attorneys is prepared to discuss your options and work to protect your future.

The Law for Common Assaults

Connecticut law describes two ways a person may commit an assault. According to Connecticut General Statute § 53a-61, assault can involve intentionally causing a physical injury to another person. These charges can also allege reckless actions resulting in injury. In simple terms, an assault is an attempt to cause harm or a reckless action resulting in injury to someone else.

Simple assault is a misdemeanor. Most assaults are class A misdemeanors where convictions can result in a maximum jail sentence of one year. A Manchester attorney at our firm could further explain the concept of assault under state law.

Aggravated Assault Charges in Manchester

There are two main factors that could lead to aggravated assault charges. The first is whether a defendant used a weapon during an alleged assault.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon

According to Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-59, assault with a deadly weapon occurs when a person uses a weapon to cause harm to another intentionally. Additionally, Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-216 outlines enhanced penalties for any crime involving the use of a firearm. Merely having a gun in one’s possession during an alleged assault brings an automatic five-year prison sentence upon conviction.

Assault Against a Protected Person

The other factor is the identity of the alleged victim. Assault against a family member, police officer, or senior citizen can result in enhanced penalties upon conviction. An alleged victim’s status as a member of a protected class could see a court issuing enhanced penalties or even reclassifying an assault from a misdemeanor to a felony.

An assault lawyer at our firm could help develop a defense against these life-changing allegations. Ruane Attorneys is prepared to tailor a defense strategy to the specific allegations. Our Manchester attorneys could argue that the defendant did not intend to cause any harm, that any physical confrontation was self-defense, or that the assault arrest resulted from mistaken identity.

Reach Out to a Manchester Assault Attorney Now

Assault charges are serious allegations that can impact every part of your life. Whether you are accused of intentionally or recklessly causing harm to someone else, you need a proactive defense strategy to defeat the charges and protect your rights.

A Manchester assault lawyer could help fight back against these allegations. Ruane Attorneys can take the lead in explaining your rights, evaluating the strength of the prosecutor’s case, disputing the legality of police work, and presenting compelling arguments before judges and juries. Our legal team can defend accused people against these charges. Contact our office today to discuss your situation and get the legal help you need.